The Sha'ulites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are descendants of Shaul, who is identified as a son of Simeon, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Sha'ulites are thus part of the larger tribe of Simeon, one of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the Sha'ulites is found in the Book of Numbers, which provides a census of the tribes of Israel during their wilderness journey. In Numbers 26:13 , the text states: "The descendants of Simeon by their clans: The Nemuelite clan from Nemuel, the Jaminite clan from Jamin, the Jakinite clan from Jakin, the Zerahite clan from Zerah, and the Shaulite clan from Shaul." This passage lists the Sha'ulites as one of the clans within the tribe of Simeon.

Genealogical Context:

Shaul, the progenitor of the Sha'ulites, is mentioned in Genesis 46:10 as one of the sons of Simeon: "The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman." This indicates that Shaul was born to a Canaanite woman, which is a notable detail in the genealogical records, as it highlights the diverse familial connections within the tribes of Israel.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

The tribe of Simeon, including the Sha'ulites, played a role in the early history of Israel. The tribe was initially allocated land within the territory of Judah, as described in Joshua 19:1-9. However, over time, the tribe of Simeon became less prominent, and its members were often absorbed into the larger and more dominant tribe of Judah.

The mention of the Sha'ulites in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Each clan within a tribe had its own distinct identity and contributed to the overall structure and organization of the Israelite community.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Sha'ulites in the biblical record serves as a reminder of God's covenant with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite their relatively obscure status, the Sha'ulites are part of the fulfillment of God's promise to make Israel a great nation. The diversity within the tribes, including the presence of individuals with Canaanite heritage, reflects the broader theme of God's redemptive plan for all peoples.

In summary, the Sha'ulites, though not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, are an integral part of the genealogical and tribal framework of Israel. Their mention in Scripture highlights the complexity and richness of Israel's history and the unfolding of God's covenantal promises.Sha'ulites (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:13
of Zerah, the family of the Zerahites; of Shaul, the family of the Shaulites.
(See RSV)

Sha'ulites (1 Occurrence)
Sha'ulites. Shaulites, Sha'ulites. Shaul's . Multi-Version Concordance
Sha'ulites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:13 of Zerah, the family ...
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Shaulites (1 Occurrence)

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Shaul's (1 Occurrence)

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