King James Version

What Does Numbers 26:17 Mean?

Numbers 26:17 in the King James Version says “Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites. — study this verse from Numbers chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites.

Numbers 26:17 · KJV


Context

15

The children of Gad after their families: of Zephon, the family of the Zephonites: of Haggi, the family of the Haggites: of Shuni, the family of the Shunites:

16

Of Ozni, the family of the Oznites: of Eri, the family of the Erites:

17

Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites.

18

These are the families of the children of Gad according to those that were numbered of them, forty thousand and five hundred.

19

The sons of Judah were Er and Onan: and Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Of Arod, the family of the Arodites: of Areli, the family of the Arelites—The final two Gadite clans complete the seven-fold division. Arod (also Arodi, Genesis 46:16) means 'wild donkey' or 'bronze,' while Areli means 'heroic' or 'lion of God' (אֲרְאֵלִי). These names suggest strength and fierceness appropriate for Gad's military role—Jacob's blessing prophesied 'Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last' (Genesis 49:19).

The number seven carries completeness in Hebrew thought, suggesting Gad's clan structure represented wholeness. Each clan (mishpachah) functioned as an extended kinship group, maintaining justice, land rights, and covenant obligations across generations.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Gad's eastern territory made them frontline defenders against raids from the desert. Their tribal structure enabled rapid military mobilization—Numbers 32:17 shows them 'armed before the children of Israel' for the conquest. The clan system ensured every fighting man knew his unit and leadership.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jacob's prophecy about Gad being 'overcome' but ultimately 'overcoming' (Genesis 49:19) apply to the Christian life of temporary suffering leading to final victory?
  2. What does Gad's willingness to fight for others' inheritance (Numbers 32) before settling their own land teach about sacrificial service?
  3. How can the seven-fold completeness of Gad's clans picture the complete church, with diverse members forming one body under Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לַֽאֲר֕וֹד1 of 6

Of Arod

H720

arod, an israelite

מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת2 of 6

the family

H4940

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

הָֽאֲרוֹדִ֑י3 of 6

of the Arodites

H722

an arodite or descendant of arod

הָֽאַרְאֵלִֽי׃4 of 6

of Areli

H692

areli (or an arelite, collectively), an israelite and his descendants

מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת5 of 6

the family

H4940

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

הָֽאַרְאֵלִֽי׃6 of 6

of Areli

H692

areli (or an arelite, collectively), an israelite and his descendants


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 26:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 26:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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