Numbers 26:36
And these are the sons of Shuthelah: of Eran, the family of the Eranites.
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֣י
And these are the sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
And these are the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 6
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
The Eranites' prominence through Joshua made them significant in Ephraim's military structure. Joshua's home city of Timnath-serah (Joshua 19:50) likely became an Eranite center. This clan's preservation through the census ensured they could claim their inheritance in Ephraim's hill country, near what became the religious center at Shiloh.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the meaning 'watchful' assigned to Joshua's clan encourage us to see God's providential preparation in our family histories?
- What does the brief mention of Eran amid lengthy genealogies teach about how God values quality over quantity in preserving significant lineages?
- How might 'watchfulness' as a clan characteristic challenge modern Christianity's sometimes casual approach to spiritual vigilance?
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Analysis & Commentary
And these are the sons of Shuthelah: of Eran, the family of the Eranites—Eran (עֵרָן, 'watchful/aroused') is the only sub-clan of Ephraim detailed, suggesting special significance. As Shuthelah's son, Eran represents Joshua's direct ancestral line (1 Chronicles 7:25-27). The name 'watchful' is providentially appropriate for the clan producing Israel's military commander who would 'watch' over the Conquest.
This single verse on a sub-clan might seem trivial, but it establishes Joshua's genealogical credentials before he leads Israel. Just as Judah's line was carefully preserved to validate Messiah's descent, Ephraim's line through Shuthelah and Eran validated Joshua's authority. The Eranites' 'watchfulness' would be essential in the coming warfare—reconnaissance, vigilance, strategic awareness. Genealogy isn't mere list-making; it's leadership verification.