The Phalluites are mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the descendants of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The name "Phalluites" is derived from Phallu (also spelled Pallu), who was a son of Reuben, Jacob's firstborn. The Phalluites are thus a clan or family group within the tribe of Reuben.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the Phalluites can be found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. In Numbers 26:5, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Reuben was the firstborn of Israel. These were the descendants of Reuben: the Hanochite clan from Hanoch, the Palluite clan from Pallu." This passage highlights the Phalluites as one of the sub-clans within the tribe of Reuben, emphasizing their lineage and place within the broader Israelite community.

Genealogical Significance:

The genealogical records in the Bible serve to establish the identity and heritage of the Israelite tribes and their subdivisions. The mention of the Phalluites underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in ancient Israelite society. As descendants of Reuben, the Phalluites would have shared in the inheritance and responsibilities of the Reubenite tribe, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the context of the ancient Near East, tribal and clan affiliations were crucial for maintaining social structure, inheritance rights, and communal responsibilities. The Phalluites, as part of the tribe of Reuben, would have been involved in the collective life of the Israelites, including participation in religious observances, military endeavors, and the division of land.

The tribe of Reuben, located east of the Jordan River, played a significant role in the early history of Israel. Although Reuben was the firstborn of Jacob, his tribe did not receive the preeminence typically associated with the firstborn due to Reuben's transgression against his father (Genesis 49:3-4). This historical context provides insight into the dynamics within the tribes of Israel and the significance of genealogical records like those mentioning the Phalluites.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Phalluites in the biblical genealogies reflects the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Israel. Each tribe and clan, including the Phalluites, was part of the chosen people through whom God intended to fulfill His promises. The detailed genealogies serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and maintaining the continuity of His covenantal relationship with them.

The Phalluites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, contribute to the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan as revealed in the Scriptures. Their mention, though brief, is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all the tribes and families within the covenant community of Israel.Phalluites (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:5
Reuben the eldest son of Israel: the children of Reuben; Hanoch, of whom cometh the family of the Hanochites: Of Phallu, the family of the Phalluites:
(WBS)

Phalluites (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Phalluites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:5 Reuben
the eldest son of Israel: the children of Reuben; Hanoch ...
/p/phalluites.htm - 6k

Phallu (5 Occurrences)
... 26:5 Reuben the eldest son of Israel: the children of Reuben; Hanoch, of whom cometh
the family of the Hanochites: Of Phallu, the family of the Phalluites: (WBS ...
/p/phallu.htm - 8k

Phalti (1 Occurrence)

/p/phalti.htm - 7k

Pallu (6 Occurrences)
... Separated, the second son of Reuben (1 Chronicles 5:3); called Phallu, Genesis
46:9. He was the father of the Phalluites (Exodus 6:14; Numbers 26:5, 8). Int. ...
/p/pallu.htm - 9k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus