Who was Beriite?

The Beriite was a descendant of Beriah, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, as listed in the genealogies of Israel. The name “Beriite” (Hebrew: בְּרִעִי, Bᵉrîʿî) means “in my affliction” or “in evil,” drawn from the root beraʿ meaning “evil” or “trouble.” It is derived from Beriah, the progenitor of the clan. The Beriites were thus one of the familial subgroups that descended from Beriah, son of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel.

The Beriite clan is specifically mentioned in Numbers 26:38-40, in the second census of Israel taken during the wilderness wanderings. This passage records the descendants of Benjamin by their clans, among which the Belaite, Ashbelite, Ahiramite, Shuphamite, and Huphamite are listed, along with Shupham’s son Ard, and Naaman, the son of Bela. Beriah and his sons Shephuphan and Hupham form the root of the Beriite line.

“These were the descendants of Benjamin by their clans: through Bela, the Belaite clan; through Ashbel, the Ashbelite clan; through Ahiram, the Ahiramite clan; through Shupham, the Shuphamite clan; through Hupham, the Huphamite clan. The descendants of Bela through Ard and Naaman were: Ard, the Ardite clan; and Naaman, the Naamite clan.”
— Numbers 26:38-40, NIV

Though the Beriites themselves are not recorded as a major tribe or a separate lineage in many of the more familiar biblical narratives, they represent the faithful preservation of genealogical lines within God’s covenant people. Every clan and household held a place in the structure of Israel’s identity and inheritance.

Biblical Context and Cross References

• Numbers 26:38-40 – Main reference to Beriah and the clans that came from him.

• Genesis 46:21 – Lists the sons of Benjamin who came to Egypt, including Beriah.

• 1 Chronicles 7:23 – Beriah also appears as a son of Ephraim in another genealogical context, though this is likely a different Beriah, indicating the name was not uncommon.

What Happened in the Bible?

The Beriites, like other sub-clans of Israel, were part of the census that counted all males eligible for military service as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land. The census in Numbers 26 was more than administrative; it was a reaffirmation of God‘s promise to give land to each tribe and family in Canaan.

While the Beriites are not singled out in any specific events, their inclusion in the census signifies their role in the covenant community. Each name preserved in the tribal records points to a real family, living under the shadow of God’s covenant faithfulness and His promise of land, identity, and blessing.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Though seemingly minor, the mention of the Beriites reminds believers today that God values every member of His people, regardless of prominence. Even obscure names in Scripture carry meaning and are recorded under divine inspiration. It affirms the truth that in God‘s kingdom, no one is forgotten, and every person has a place in His divine plan.

The Beriites also serve as a reminder of spiritual legacy. Just as they were known by their forefather Beriah, so believers are spiritually identified with Christ. Our identity is no longer found in ourselves but in the One who has redeemed us and included us in the household of faith (Ephesians 2:19–22).

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The genealogical records of Israel point forward to the ultimate Son of Israel—Jesus Christ—through whom all families of the earth are blessed (Genesis 12:3; Matthew 1:1–17). While the Beriites are not direct ancestors of Jesus, their presence in the covenant community foreshadows the gathering of people from all families, tribes, and nations into the family of God through Christ (Revelation 7:9–10).

Moreover, Jesus affirmed that even the least remembered are known to the Father (Luke 12:7). Just as the Beriites were counted among God‘s people, so every believer is counted in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 21:27).

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Covenant Community

The Beriites exemplify the unity and structure of Israel as a covenant people. God established His covenant not just with individuals but with households and tribes—each playing a role in His redemptive plan.

2. Faithfulness in the Ordinary

The Beriites did not make headlines in Scripture, yet they were faithfully included. This points to the biblical theme of God using the ordinary and unseen to fulfill His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:26–29).

3. God’s Record-Keeping

God is meticulous in remembering names, families, and histories. This reflects the deep personal care He has for His people (Malachi 3:16).

Reflection Questions

1. Why is it important that God records even the lesser-known clans like the Beriites in His Word?

2. How does belonging to the spiritual household of God affect your sense of identity and purpose?

3. In what ways can you be faithful in the seemingly ordinary areas of your life, knowing God sees and values them?

4. What encouragement do you find in knowing that God never forgets His people, even if they’re not well-known?

5. How can the inclusion of obscure biblical names strengthen your trust in the accuracy and depth of Scripture?

The story of the Beriite clan may be quiet, but it is not without meaning. Their place in God’s Word assures believers that faithfulness is never overlooked, and that every part of God’s people—seen or unseen—is precious in His sight.