The Jerah'meelites are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical and territorial contexts of the tribes of Israel. They are descendants of Jerahmeel, who was a member of the tribe of Judah. The Jerah'meelites are primarily noted in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles and in the historical narratives of 1 Samuel.

Genealogical Background

Jerahmeel, the eponymous ancestor of the Jerah'meelites, is listed as a son of Hezron, who was a grandson of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 2:9, 25-27 provides insight into the lineage of Jerahmeel: "The sons of Hezron who were born to him: Jerahmeel, Ram, and Caleb... The sons of Jerahmeel, the firstborn of Hezron: Ram his firstborn, Bunah, Oren, Ozem, and Ahijah." This passage situates the Jerah'meelites within the broader context of the tribe of Judah, highlighting their ancestral roots and familial connections.

Territorial Significance

The Jerah'meelites are also associated with a specific region within the territory of Judah. In 1 Samuel 27:10, David, while living among the Philistines, conducts raids against various groups and reports to Achish, the Philistine king, that he has raided the Negev of Judah, the Negev of the Jerah'meelites, and the Negev of the Kenites. This reference indicates that the Jerah'meelites occupied a portion of the Negev, a desert region in the southern part of Judah's territory. Their presence in this area suggests a degree of autonomy and established settlement within the tribal lands of Judah.

Historical Context

The Jerah'meelites are mentioned in the context of David's activities while he was fleeing from King Saul. In 1 Samuel 30:29, David sends some of the spoils from his victory over the Amalekites to various groups, including the Jerah'meelites: "to those in Racal, to those in the cities of the Jerah'meelites, to those in the cities of the Kenites." This act of sending gifts indicates a relationship between David and the Jerah'meelites, possibly as allies or supporters during his time of need.

Cultural and Religious Aspects

As part of the tribe of Judah, the Jerah'meelites would have shared in the cultural and religious heritage of the Israelites. This includes adherence to the covenantal laws given through Moses and participation in the religious festivals and practices centered around the worship of Yahweh. Their inclusion in the genealogical records underscores their role within the covenant community of Israel.

Conclusion

The Jerah'meelites, though not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, are an integral part of the tribal and familial structure of ancient Israel. Their mention in genealogies and historical accounts highlights their connection to the tribe of Judah and their presence in the southern regions of the Promised Land. Through their interactions with key biblical figures like David, the Jerah'meelites contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Scriptures.Jerah'meelites (2 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 27:10
And Achish said: 'Whither have ye made a raid to-day?' And David said: 'Against the South of Judah, and against the South of the Jerahmeelites, and against the South of the Kenites.'
(See RSV)

1 Samuel 30:29
and to them that were in Racal, and to them that were in the cities of the Jerahmeelites, and to them that were in the cities of the Kenites;
(See RSV)

Jerah'meelites (2 Occurrences)
Jerah'meelites. Jerahmeelites, Jerah'meelites. Jerechu . Multi-Version
Concordance Jerah'meelites (2 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 27:10 ...
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Jerahmeelites (2 Occurrences)

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Jerechu

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