Reuben, the eldest son of Israel: the children of Reuben; Hanoch, of whom cometh the family of the Hanochites: of Pallu, the family of the Palluites:
Reuben was Israel's oldest son. The descendants of Reuben included: Hanoch, who became the ancestor of the Hanochite family; and Pallu, who became the ancestor of the Palluite family.
This verse begins listing the family groups that descended from Reuben, Jacob's firstborn son, showing how God's people organized themselves by tribes and clans.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Numbers, chapter 26, God instructed Moses to conduct a second census of the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, following the previous generation's failures in the wilderness. This verse specifically lists the descendants of Reuben, Jacob's firstborn son who was renamed Israel, as part of a broader effort to organize the tribes for land inheritance and military purposes. Such genealogical records were essential in ancient Israelite society to maintain tribal identity and ensure the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.