Topical Encyclopedia The Shaulites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are descendants of Shaul, who was a son of Simeon, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Shaulites are thus part of the larger tribe of Simeon, one of the tribes of Israel.Biblical References The primary reference to the Shaulites 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 identifies the Shaulites as one of the clans within the tribe of Simeon. Genealogical Context Shaul, the progenitor of the Shaulites, 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 backgrounds within the tribes of Israel. Historical and Cultural Significance The tribe of Simeon, including the Shaulites, 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 tribe of Judah. This absorption is reflected in the lack of further significant mentions of the Shaulites or the tribe of Simeon in later biblical narratives. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Shaulites in the biblical record underscores the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Israel. Each clan and tribe, regardless of its size or prominence, is part of the chosen people. The mention of Shaul's Canaanite mother also serves as a reminder of the diverse origins of the Israelites and the inclusivity of God's plan. Conclusion While the Shaulites are not a major focus in the biblical narrative, their presence in the genealogical records of Israel highlights the detailed and inclusive nature of the biblical account of God's people. The Shaulites, as part of the tribe of Simeon, contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and heritage as recorded in the Scriptures. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHAUL; SHAULITESsha'-ul, sha'-ul-its (sha'ul; Saoul): Strong's Hebrew 7587. Shauli -- descendant of Shaul... descendant of Shaul. Transliteration: Shauli Phonetic Spelling: (shaw-oo-lee') Short Definition: Shaulites. ... of Shaul NASB Word Usage Shaulites (1). Shaulites. ... /hebrew/7587.htm - 6k Thesaurus Shaulites (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHAUL; SHAULITES. sha'-ul, sha ... Canaanitish descent. The patronymic Shaulites is found in Numbers 26:13. (3 ... /s/shaulites.htm - 7k Shaul (10 Occurrences) Shaulite (1 Occurrence) Sha'ulites (1 Occurrence) Zarhite (4 Occurrences) Zerahites (5 Occurrences) Zarhites (4 Occurrences) Zerahite (4 Occurrences) Zer'ahites (2 Occurrences) Clan (96 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Shaulites (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:13 Subtopics Related Terms |