Are'li is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. He is recognized as one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Gad was the seventh son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Are'li's name is listed among the descendants of Gad, who became one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 46:16 : "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Areli, and Arodi." This verse is part of the genealogical record that details the family members of Jacob who went down to Egypt during the time of famine. Are'li is mentioned here as one of the sons of Gad, indicating his place within the family lineage.

2. Numbers 26:17 : "These were the clans of Gad: The Zephonite clan from Zephon, the Haggite clan from Haggi, the Shunite clan from Shuni, the Oznite clan from Ozni, the Erite clan from Eri, the Arodite clan from Arod, and the Arelite clan from Areli." In this passage, Are'li is noted as the progenitor of the Arelite clan. This census was taken during the Israelites' wilderness journey, and it highlights the descendants of Gad as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Gad, to which Are'li belonged, was known for its warrior-like characteristics and played a significant role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The descendants of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known for its fertile land suitable for livestock. The Arelite clan, stemming from Are'li, would have been part of this tribal heritage, contributing to the strength and identity of the tribe of Gad.

Etymology and Meaning:

The name Are'li is believed to derive from a root meaning "lion of God" or "heroic." This etymology reflects the valor and strength often associated with the tribe of Gad. The name itself may suggest a divine favor or strength attributed to Are'li and his descendants.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the broader context of Israelite history, the genealogies and tribal affiliations were crucial for maintaining the identity and heritage of the people of Israel. Each tribe had its own unique characteristics and roles within the nation. The mention of Are'li and his descendants underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal connections in the biblical narrative.

Are'li's inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel and their foundational role in the history of God's chosen people.Are'li (2 Occurrences)

Genesis 46:16
And the sons of Gad: Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni, and Ezbon, Eri, and Arodi, and Areli.
(See RSV)

Numbers 26:17
of Arod, the family of the Arodites; of Areli, the family of the Arelites.
(See RSV)

Are'li (2 Occurrences)
Are'li. Areli, Are'li. Arelite . Multi-Version Concordance Are'li (2
Occurrences). Genesis 46:16 And the sons of Gad: Ziphion, and ...
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Areli (2 Occurrences)

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Arelite (1 Occurrence)

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