The Arelites are a group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribe of Gad. The reference to the Arelites can be found in 1 Chronicles 5:17, which states, "All these were registered by genealogies in the days of Jotham king of Judah and in the days of Jeroboam king of Israel." This passage is part of a larger section that details the descendants of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who lived east of the Jordan River.

The name "Arelites" is derived from "Arel," which is believed to be a personal or clan name within the tribe of Gad. The tribe of Gad was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The Gadites were known for their valor and military prowess, as described in 1 Chronicles 12:8, "From the Gadites, there went over to David at the stronghold in the wilderness mighty men of valor, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles on the mountains."

The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the historical and familial connections of the tribes of Israel, emphasizing their heritage and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The mention of the Arelites, though brief, underscores the importance of lineage and identity within the Israelite community. It also reflects the chronicler's intent to preserve the memory of the tribes and their subdivisions, which played a crucial role in the social and religious life of ancient Israel.

The historical context of the Arelites' mention, during the reigns of Jotham and Jeroboam, situates them in a period of divided monarchy, where the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah coexisted. This era was marked by political instability and varying degrees of faithfulness to the covenant with Yahweh. The genealogical records, therefore, not only serve as a historical account but also as a theological reminder of the continuity of God's people despite the challenges they faced.

In summary, the Arelites represent a specific lineage within the tribe of Gad, highlighting the broader narrative of Israel's tribal history and the enduring significance of genealogical heritage in the biblical tradition.Are'lites (1 Occurrence)

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

Are'lites (1 Occurrence)
Are'lites. Arelites, Are'lites. Arena . Multi-Version Concordance
Are'lites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:17 of Arod, the family of ...
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Arena (1 Occurrence)

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Arelites (1 Occurrence)

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