Jimnah, also spelled Imnah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Asher, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Asher was the eighth son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Jimnah is part of the genealogical records that trace the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites.

Biblical References:

Jimnah is specifically mentioned in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Numbers. In Genesis 46:17, the Berean Standard Bible records: "The sons of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah." This passage is part of the genealogical list that details the descendants of Jacob who went to Egypt during the time of famine.

In Numbers 26:44, during the census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the descendants of Asher are enumerated: "These were the descendants of Asher by their clans: The Imnite clan from Imnah, the Ishvite clan from Ishvi, the Beriite clan from Beriah." This census was conducted to organize the tribes for the conquest of Canaan and to allocate land according to their numbers.

Tribal Significance:

As a son of Asher, Jimnah is part of the tribe of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Asher was known for its prosperity and abundance, as prophesied by Jacob in Genesis 49:20 : "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide royal delicacies." This blessing highlights the tribe's future role in providing sustenance and luxury, which is consistent with the fertile land they later inherited in the Promised Land.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The tribe of Asher settled in the western part of the land of Canaan, along the Mediterranean coast. This region was known for its fertile soil and olive groves, contributing to the tribe's wealth and fulfillment of Jacob's blessing. The tribe's location also placed them in contact with various neighboring peoples, influencing their culture and interactions.

Jimnah's mention in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. These records were crucial for maintaining the inheritance rights and social structure of the Israelite community.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, Jimnah's inclusion in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. The genealogies in which Jimnah appears are not merely historical records but are integral to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the nation of Israel. Each name, including Jimnah's, represents a link in the chain of God's covenantal relationship with His people.

Jimnah, as a son of Asher, is part of the broader narrative that demonstrates God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The tribe of Asher, with its blessings and responsibilities, plays a role in the larger account of Israel's journey from slavery in Egypt to the establishment in the Promised Land.Genesis 46:17
And the sons of Asher; Jimnah, and Ishuah, and Isui, and Beriah, and Serah their sister: and the sons of Beriah; Heber, and Malchiel.
Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 26:44
Of the children of Asher after their families: of Jimna, the family of the Jimnites: of Jesui, the family of the Jesuites: of Beriah, the family of the Beriites.
Nave's Topical Index

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