Topical Encyclopedia The Shuphamites are a biblical group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. They are descendants of Shupham, who is identified as a member of the tribe of Benjamin. The Shuphamites are part of the larger narrative of the Israelite tribes, each of which played a distinct role in the history and development of the nation of Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to the Shuphamites is found in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 26:39 , during the second census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the descendants of Benjamin are enumerated: "The descendants of Bela were the Ardites and the Naamites. These were the clans of Benjamin, and their registration numbered 45,600." The Shuphamites are mentioned as part of the clan of Bela, one of Benjamin's sons, although the specific name "Shuphamites" is not directly used in this verse. Instead, they are often associated with the broader genealogical context of the tribe of Benjamin. Tribal Significance: The tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in Israelite history. As the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, Benjamin's descendants were known for their valor and strategic importance. The Shuphamites, as part of this tribe, would have shared in the collective identity and responsibilities of the Benjaminites. The tribe of Benjamin was known for producing notable figures, including King Saul, Israel's first king, and the Apostle Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus. Cultural and Historical Context: In the context of ancient Israel, tribal affiliations were crucial for identity, inheritance, and social structure. The Shuphamites, like other clans, would have had specific roles and responsibilities within the tribe of Benjamin. The census recorded in Numbers 26 was not merely a counting of people but a means of organizing the community for military and administrative purposes as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Shuphamites in the biblical record underscores the importance of each family and clan in God's covenantal relationship with Israel. The detailed genealogies reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to the patriarchs, ensuring that each tribe and clan had a place in the unfolding plan of salvation history. The Shuphamites, though not prominently featured in biblical narratives, are part of the tapestry of God's chosen people, illustrating the comprehensive nature of His covenant. Conclusion: While the Shuphamites may not be extensively detailed in the biblical text, their mention within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin highlights the importance of every clan in the history and heritage of Israel. As descendants of Shupham, they contribute to the rich narrative of God's people, serving as a reminder of the diverse and interconnected nature of the tribes of Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHUPHAM; SHUPHAMITESshoo'-fam, shoo'-fam-its. Strong's Hebrew 7781. Shuphami -- descendant of Shephupham... 7780, 7781. Shuphami. 7782 . descendant of Shephupham. Transliteration: Shuphami Phonetic Spelling: (shoo-faw-mee') Short Definition: Shuphamites. ... /hebrew/7781.htm - 6k Thesaurus Shuphamites (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHUPHAM; SHUPHAMITES. shoo'-fam, shoo'-fam-its. See SHEPHUPHAM. Multi-Version Concordance Shuphamites (1 Occurrence). ... /s/shuphamites.htm - 6k Shuphamite (1 Occurrence) Shephupham (1 Occurrence) Shupham (1 Occurrence) Shu'phamites (1 Occurrence) Shephuphan (1 Occurrence) Shephu'pham (1 Occurrence) Clan (96 Occurrences) Huphamites (1 Occurrence) Hupham (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Shuphamites (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:39 Subtopics Related Terms |