The term "Shuphamite" refers to a descendant or member of the family of Shupham, a clan within the tribe of Benjamin. The Shuphamites are mentioned in the genealogical records of the Israelites, specifically in the context of the census and division of the land among the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the Shuphamites is found in the Book of Numbers, where the descendants of Benjamin are listed. In Numbers 26:39 , it states: "The descendants of Shupham were the Shuphamite clan, and the descendants of Hupham were the Huphamite clan." This passage is part of the second census conducted by Moses and Eleazar the priest on the plains of Moab, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The tribe played a significant role in the history of Israel, providing the first king, Saul, and later becoming part of the Southern Kingdom of Judah after the division of the united monarchy.

The Shuphamites, as a clan within Benjamin, would have shared in the tribal inheritance and responsibilities. The genealogical records, such as those found in Numbers, were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and ensuring the proper distribution of land and resources according to God's covenant with Israel.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The mention of the Shuphamites, though brief, underscores the importance of family and tribal lineage in the biblical narrative. Each clan and family had a role in the unfolding account of God's people, contributing to the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

From a theological perspective, the detailed genealogies and clan listings in the Bible highlight God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen people. They also serve as a reminder of the communal nature of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where each tribe and clan had a part to play in the larger redemptive plan.

Cultural Insights:

In ancient Israelite society, clan and family affiliations were central to one's identity and social standing. The Shuphamites, like other clans, would have had specific roles and responsibilities within the tribe of Benjamin. These roles could include military service, religious duties, and participation in communal decision-making.

The preservation of clan names and genealogies also reflects the oral and written traditions of the Israelites, who placed great importance on remembering and recording their history as a testament to God's ongoing work among them.

Conclusion:

While the Shuphamites are not extensively detailed in the biblical text, their inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Israel and the integral role of each family and clan in the unfolding of His divine plan.7781. Shuphami -- descendant of Shephupham
... Shuphamite. Patronymic from Shphuwpham; a Shuphamite (collectively) or descendants
of Shephupham -- Shuphamite. see HEBREW Shphuwpham. 7780, 7781. ...
/hebrew/7781.htm - 6kShuphamite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shuphamite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:39 of Shephupham,
the family of the Shuphamites; of Hupham, the family of the Huphamites. ...
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Shupham (1 Occurrence)

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Shuphamites (1 Occurrence)

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