Numbers 26:17
Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites.
Original Language Analysis
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת
the family
H4940
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת
the family
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
2 of 6
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
הָֽאַרְאֵלִֽי׃
of Areli
H692
הָֽאַרְאֵלִֽי׃
of Areli
Strong's:
H692
Word #:
4 of 6
areli (or an arelite, collectively), an israelite and his descendants
Historical Context
Gad's eastern territory made them frontline defenders against raids from the desert. Their tribal structure enabled rapid military mobilization—Numbers 32:17 shows them 'armed before the children of Israel' for the conquest. The clan system ensured every fighting man knew his unit and leadership.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jacob's prophecy about Gad being 'overcome' but ultimately 'overcoming' (Genesis 49:19) apply to the Christian life of temporary suffering leading to final victory?
- What does Gad's willingness to fight for others' inheritance (Numbers 32) before settling their own land teach about sacrificial service?
- How can the seven-fold completeness of Gad's clans picture the complete church, with diverse members forming one body under Christ?
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Analysis & Commentary
Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites—The final two Gadite clans complete the seven-fold division. Arod (also Arodi, Genesis 46:16) means 'wild donkey' or 'bronze,' while Areli means 'heroic' or 'lion of God' (אֲרְאֵלִי). These names suggest strength and fierceness appropriate for Gad's military role—Jacob's blessing prophesied 'Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last' (Genesis 49:19).
The number seven carries completeness in Hebrew thought, suggesting Gad's clan structure represented wholeness. Each clan (mishpachah) functioned as an extended kinship group, maintaining justice, land rights, and covenant obligations across generations.