The term "Shuthelahite" refers to the descendants of Shuthelah, who was a son of Ephraim, the son of Joseph, one of the twelve patriarchs of Israel. The Shuthelahites are mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel, specifically within the tribe of Ephraim.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 26:35-36 : "These were the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: The Shuthelahite clan from Shuthelah, the Bekerite clan from Beker, and the Tahanite clan from Tahan. These were the descendants of Shuthelah: the Eranite clan from Eran."

In this passage, the Shuthelahites are listed among the clans of the tribe of Ephraim during the second census of Israel in the wilderness. This census was conducted to determine the number of men eligible for military service as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land.

2. 1 Chronicles 7:20-21 : "The descendants of Ephraim: Shuthelah, Bered his son, Tahath his son, Eleadah his son, Tahath his son, Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son. Ezer and Elead were killed by the native-born men of Gath when they went down to seize their livestock."

This genealogical record in 1 Chronicles provides additional details about the lineage of Shuthelah, highlighting the continuity of his line through several generations. The passage also recounts a tragic event involving members of the family, illustrating the challenges faced by the tribe of Ephraim.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The Shuthelahites, as part of the tribe of Ephraim, played a role in the broader narrative of the Israelites. Ephraim, being one of the two sons of Joseph, held a significant position among the tribes, often associated with leadership and prominence. The tribe of Ephraim was known for its strength and influence, as seen in various biblical accounts.

The mention of the Shuthelahites in the census underscores the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Each clan contributed to the collective strength and organization of the nation, particularly in preparation for entering and settling in the Promised Land.

The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to preserve the heritage and legacy of the Shuthelahites, ensuring that their place within the history of Israel is remembered. These records also reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, as the descendants of Joseph continued to grow and multiply.

Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social status. The Shuthelahites, like other clans, would have been recognized for their contributions to the community and their role in the unfolding account of God's people.

The narrative of the Shuthelahites, while brief, is part of the larger tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the faithfulness of God to His covenant people and the ongoing journey of the tribes as they sought to live out their calling in the land promised to their forefathers.Shuthelahite (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:35
These are the sons of Ephraim after their families: of Shuthelah, the family of the Shuthelahites; of Becher, the family of the Becherites; of Tahan, the family of the Tahanites.
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Shuthelahite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shuthelahite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:35 These
are the sons of Ephraim after their families: of Shuthelah ...
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Shuthelahites (1 Occurrence)

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Shuthe'lah (3 Occurrences)
Shuthe'lah. Shuthelah, Shuthe'lah. Shuthelahite . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See RSV). Shuthelah, Shuthe'lah. Shuthelahite . Reference Bible.
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