Kem'uel
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Kem'uel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, whose name is understood to mean "God's helper" or "raised by God." He appears in the genealogies and narratives of the Bible, providing insight into the familial and tribal structures of the ancient Near East.

1. Kem'uel, Son of Nahor: Kem'uel is first introduced in Genesis 22:21 as a son of Nahor, Abraham's brother. The verse states, "Uz the firstborn, his brother Buz, Kemuel the father of Aram." This places Kem'uel within the broader context of the Abrahamic family, highlighting the interconnectedness of the tribes and peoples that descended from Terah, Abraham's father. Kem'uel's mention as the "father of Aram" suggests a significant role in the lineage that would later be associated with the Arameans, a Semitic people who played a crucial role in the history of the region.

2. Kem'uel, Prince of Ephraim: Another individual named Kem'uel is noted in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 34:24, Kem'uel is identified as a leader from the tribe of Ephraim: "And the leader from the tribe of the Ephraimites was Kemuel son of Shiphtan." This Kem'uel was appointed as one of the leaders responsible for the division of the Promised Land among the Israelite tribes. His role underscores the importance of tribal leadership and the orderly distribution of land as the Israelites settled in Canaan.

3. Genealogical Significance: The mention of Kem'uel in these contexts highlights the importance of genealogy in the biblical narrative. Genealogies served not only to record lineage but also to establish legal and territorial claims, as well as to affirm the fulfillment of divine promises. Kem'uel's inclusion in these records reflects the broader biblical theme of God's providence and the unfolding of His covenantal promises through specific family lines.

4. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the figure of Kem'uel, particularly as the "father of Aram," can be seen as part of the divine orchestration of history. The Arameans, who are linked to Kem'uel, would later interact with Israel in various ways, both as adversaries and as part of the broader Semitic cultural milieu. This interaction is part of the complex tapestry of relationships that God uses to shape the history of His people.

5. Cultural and Historical Context: Understanding Kem'uel's place in the biblical narrative also involves recognizing the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East. The genealogies and tribal affiliations reflect the social structures of the time, where family and tribal identity were central to one's role and status in society. Kem'uel's mention in these genealogies provides a glimpse into the intricate web of relationships that characterized the ancient world.

In summary, Kem'uel is a figure whose brief mentions in the Bible open a window into the genealogical, tribal, and theological dimensions of the biblical narrative. His role as a progenitor and leader underscores the importance of family lineage and divine providence in the unfolding account of God's people.
Concordance
Kem'uel (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 27:17
of Levi, Hashabiah the son of Kemuel; of Aaron, Zadok;
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Kem'uel (1 Occurrence)
Kem'uel. Kemuel, Kem'uel. Kemu'el . Multi-Version Concordance Kem'uel
(1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 27:17 of Levi, Hashabiah the ...
/k/kem'uel.htm - 6k

Kemuel (3 Occurrences)

/k/kemuel.htm - 8k

Kemu'el (2 Occurrences)
Kemu'el. Kem'uel, Kemu'el. Kenaanah . Multi-Version Concordance Kemu'el (2
Occurrences). ... (See RSV). Kem'uel, Kemu'el. Kenaanah . Reference Bible.
/k/kemu'el.htm - 6k

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