The term "Carmite" refers to a descendant or member of the family of Carmi, a figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. The name Carmi is derived from the Hebrew word "Karmi," which means "my vineyard" or "vine-dresser." Carmi is noted in the lineage of the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, and is associated with the early history of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Genealogy of Reuben: Carmi is listed as one of the sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob and Leah. In the genealogical records, Carmi is mentioned as a patriarchal figure within the tribe of Reuben. The tribe of Reuben was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and its members were known as Reubenites. The genealogical listing can be found in the Book of Genesis: "The sons of Reuben: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi" (Genesis 46:9).

2. The Sin of Achan: A notable descendant of Carmi is Achan, who is infamously known for his transgression during the conquest of Jericho. Achan, identified as "Achan son of Carmi," violated the command of God by taking forbidden items from the spoils of Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai. This incident is recorded in the Book of Joshua: "Achan son of Carmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of what was set apart" (Joshua 7:1). This act of disobedience resulted in severe consequences for Achan and his family, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands.

3. Tribal Inheritance: The tribe of Reuben, to which the Carmites belonged, was allocated land on the east side of the Jordan River. This territory was part of the inheritance given to the tribes of Israel as they settled in the Promised Land. The Reubenites, including the descendants of Carmi, played a role in the early settlement and defense of this region.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Carmites, as part of the tribe of Reuben, were integral to the early formation of the Israelite nation. The tribe of Reuben, despite being the firstborn, did not receive the preeminent blessing due to Reuben's transgression against his father Jacob (Genesis 49:3-4). This historical context provides insight into the dynamics and challenges faced by the tribe, including the descendants of Carmi.

The account of Achan, a Carmite, serves as a moral and theological lesson within the biblical narrative. It underscores the themes of covenant faithfulness, the consequences of sin, and the communal responsibility of the Israelites to uphold God's commandments. The account of Achan's sin and its repercussions is a poignant reminder of the seriousness with which God views obedience and the sanctity of His commands.

In summary, the Carmites, as descendants of Carmi, are a part of the rich tapestry of Israel's history, contributing to the narrative of the Reubenite tribe and the broader account of the Israelite people as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.Carmite (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:6
of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites.
(Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Carmite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Carmite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the
family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
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Carmi (8 Occurrences)

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Carmites (1 Occurrence)

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