“And the sons of Asher; Jimnah, and Ishuah, and Isui, and Beriah, and Serah their sister: and the sons of Beriah; Heber, and Malchiel.”
This verse is part of the genealogical record found in Genesis 46, which lists the names of the sons and descendants of Jacob (Israel) who went down to Egypt with him during a time of famine. In this particular verse, the focus is on the descendants of Asher, one of Jacob’s sons.
Asher and his sons: Asher was one of Jacob’s twelve sons and the brother of Joseph. He had four sons named Jimnah, Ishuah, Isui, and Beriah. These names reflect the family lineage and help to establish the tribal divisions among the descendants of Jacob.
Serah, their sister: In addition to Asher’s sons, the verse mentions Serah, who is referred to as their sister. Serah was the daughter of Asher and the granddaughter of Jacob. While the Bible does not provide many details about Serah, she is mentioned in a few other instances, including in Genesis 46:26, where it is noted that the total number of Jacob’s direct descendants who went to Egypt was sixty-six, and Serah is listed as one of them.
The sons of Beriah: The verse also mentions the sons of Beriah, who is one of Asher’s sons. Beriah had two sons named Heber and Malchiel. These names indicate further divisions within the descendants of Asher.
The genealogies found in the Bible serve several purposes. They help establish the family lineage and tribal divisions, providing historical and genealogical records. They also demonstrate the fulfillment of God’s promises and prophecies made to the patriarchs, as the descendants multiply and continue to form the twelve tribes of Israel.
While this verse may not contain significant theological teachings or narratives like other passages in the Bible, it serves as a reminder of the vastness of Jacob’s family and the fulfillment of God’s plan to establish the nation of Israel through these descendants.
