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Book of Numbers - Chapter 26 - Verse 42

26:42
These are the sons of Dan after their families: of Shuham, the family of the Shuhamites. These are the families of Dan after their families.

Meaning

Within the book of Numbers, the verse 'These are the sons of Dan after their families: of Shuham, the family of the Shuhamites. These are the families of Dan after their families' enumerates the descendants of the tribe of Dan. This specific verse is crucial in tracing the ancestry and lineage of the Danites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. By documenting the various families within the tribe of Dan, this verse helps to establish the organization and structure of the community, highlighting the importance of family ties and inheritance within ancient Israelite society. The repetition of the phrase "after their families" emphasizes the significance placed on familial connections and the preservation of tribal heritage. Through verses like these, readers gain insight into the genealogical traditions and social structures of the Israelites, offering a window into the cultural practices of the ancient world.

Theological Overview

Within the biblical text, the genealogy of the tribe of Dan is recorded detailing the various families that make up the tribe. The significance of lineage and family structure in ancient Israelite society is emphasized through the repetition of the phrase "after their families." This repetitive language serves to underscore the importance of tribal identity and the preservation of ancestral heritage. The mention of the Shuhamites within the tribe of Dan provides a glimpse into the unique subgroups that existed within the larger tribe, each with its own specific characteristics and history. Through theological interpretation, scholars may delve into the meaning behind the names of these families and how they reflect upon the spiritual journey of the tribe of Dan. Word studies on terms like "Shuham" can provide additional insights into the cultural context and significance of these familial designations within the larger narrative of the Israelite tribes as they settled in the Promised Land.

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