“And the sons of Asher after their families: of Jimna, the family of the Jimnites: of Jesui, the family of the Jesuites: of Beriah, the family of the Beriites.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and primarily focuses on the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. In this particular chapter, the Israelites are preparing to enter the Promised Land. The passage in Numbers 26:44 is part of a census conducted by Moses and Eleazar the priest to count the new generation of Israelites.
The Tribe of Asher: Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and this verse specifically mentions the descendants of Asher. Asher was one of the sons of Jacob (Israel) and was born to Jacob’s wife Zilpah, who was Leah’s maid. The tribe of Asher inherited a portion of land in the northern part of Canaan, west of the Jordan River.
The Families of Asher: The verse mentions three families within the tribe of Asher: the Jimnites, the Jesuites, and the Beriites. These families were descendants of Asher and formed distinct groups within the tribe. They likely traced their ancestry back to specific individuals who were prominent or notable within the tribe.
The Significance: This verse serves as a record of the genealogy of the tribe of Asher. The census conducted in Numbers 26 was essential for determining the size and distribution of each tribe as they prepared to enter and conquer the Promised Land. These family names were significant for identifying the different divisions and lineages within the tribe of Asher.
Lessons to Learn: While this verse may seem specific and less immediately applicable, it highlights the importance of ancestry and lineage within the context of the Israelites. It emphasizes the meticulous record-keeping and organization of God’s chosen people as they prepared to inherit the land promised to them. It also reminds us of the faithfulness of God to fulfill His promises, as He led the Israelites through various trials and preserved their heritage.
Overall, Numbers 26:44 provides us with a glimpse into the structure and organization of the tribe of Asher within the larger community of the Israelites. It reminds us of the significance of genealogies in biblical times and highlights the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.
