Topical Encyclopedia Jeeli is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name Jeeli appears in the context of the descendants of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Gad was one of the tribes that settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the land of Gilead, after the Israelites entered the Promised Land.Biblical Reference: Jeeli is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 5:13, which provides a genealogical account of the tribe of Gad. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "The sons of Gad lived next to them in the land of Bashan as far as Salecah: Joel the chief, Shapham the second, then Janai and Shaphat in Bashan. Their kinsmen by their families were Michael, Meshullam, Sheba, Jorai, Jacan, Zia, and Eber—seven in all. These were the sons of Abihail son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jeshishai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Buz; Ahi son of Abdiel, the son of Guni, was head of their family. They lived in Gilead, in Bashan and its towns, and throughout the pasturelands of Sharon. All of them were registered in the genealogies during the reigns of Jotham king of Judah and Jeroboam king of Israel." In this passage, Jeeli is listed among the descendants of Gad, though the name is not explicitly mentioned in the BSB translation. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles are significant for understanding the tribal affiliations and family lineages of the Israelites, which were important for maintaining the inheritance and land allotments given by God. Historical and Cultural Context: The tribe of Gad, to which Jeeli belonged, was known for its warrior-like characteristics. The Gadites were described as valiant men, skilled in battle, and they played a crucial role in the military campaigns of Israel. The land of Gilead, where the tribe settled, was a fertile region suitable for livestock, which was a primary occupation of the Gadites. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve not only as historical records but also as a means of preserving the identity and heritage of the Israelite tribes. These records were particularly important during and after the Babylonian exile, as they helped the Israelites maintain a connection to their ancestral roots and the promises of God. Theological Significance: While Jeeli himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of every individual within the covenant community of Israel. Each name in the genealogies represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history, pointing to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people. The genealogies also highlight the continuity of God's promises to the patriarchs, as the descendants of the tribes of Israel are traced back to the sons of Jacob. This continuity is a testament to God's unchanging nature and His commitment to fulfill His covenant promises. In summary, Jeeli, though a minor figure, is part of the broader tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the interconnectedness of God's people and the unfolding of His divine plan throughout the generations. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JEELIje-e'-li (Ieieli: Called "Jaalah" in Ezra 2:56 and "Jaala" in Nehemiah 7:58 (1 Esdras 5:33). Thesaurus Jeeli... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JEELI. je-e'-li (Ieieli: Called "Jaalah" in Ezra 2:56 and "Jaala" in Nehemiah 7:58 (1 Esdras 5:33). ... /j/jeeli.htm - 6k Jedu'thun (11 Occurrences) Jeelus Jaalah (1 Occurrence) Jaala (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |