What was Puhites?

The Puhites were a family or clan descended from Puah, a son of Issachar, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The name “Puhites” appears in 1 Chronicles 2:53, which lists various descendants and families of the tribe of Judah. Although the Puhites are only briefly mentioned, their inclusion in the genealogical records of Israel indicates their recognized place among the people of God.

The Hebrew name Puah (פּוּאָה, Pû’âh) may mean “splendid” or “shining.” The term Puhites (in Hebrew, פּוּחִי, Pûḥî) is a patronymic form, referring to the descendants of Puah.

Biblical References

The only direct mention of the Puhites occurs in:

• 1 Chronicles 2:53 – “The clans of Kiriath Jearim: the Ithrites, Puthites, Shumathites and Mishraites. From these descended the Zorathites and Eshtaolites.”

Although the spelling in some translations lists “Puthites,” this is likely a transliteration variant of the same family, commonly understood by scholars and translators to refer to the descendants of Puah.

Other cross-references associated with the broader genealogy include:

• Genesis 46:13 – “The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub and Shimron.”

• Numbers 26:23 – “The descendants of Issachar by their clans were: through Tola, the Tolaite clan; through Puah, the Puite clan.”

These passages identify Puah as a son of Issachar and founder of a clan within the tribe of Issachar.

Historical and Biblical Context

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles 2 trace the line of Judah and his descendants, including prominent cities and families associated with the tribal inheritance in the Promised Land. In this list, the chronicler records families linked with the town of Kiriath Jearim, a city within Judah‘s allotment, notably mentioned in relation to the Ark of the Covenant (1 Samuel 7:1-2). Among these families are the Puhites, showing their integration within the community and identity of God’s covenant people.

Though brief, the mention of the Puhites affirms the meticulous concern of the biblical authors to record the lineage and tribal structure of Israel—a key element in understanding God’s covenantal dealings with His people.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

While the Puhites are not a prominent biblical family, their presence in the genealogical records reminds us that every member of God’s covenant community matters. Even minor clans were counted and named in the divine record, signifying God‘s intimate knowledge and care for His people.

For Christians today, this serves as a powerful assurance that no one is insignificant in the eyes of God. Our names may not be widely known, but they are recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 20:15), and we each have a role in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

Though the Puhites are not directly tied to the Messianic line, their inclusion in the genealogy of Judah (the tribe from which Christ came) reinforces the broader biblical theme of God working through human history and generations to bring forth the Savior. Every name and clan played a role in preserving the identity and continuity of the people of Israel.

Jesus, the fulfillment of all the Old Testament promises, came in the “fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4), born of the tribe of Judah, and the genealogies like those in 1 Chronicles 2 preserve the integrity of that redemptive line. The meticulous record of clans such as the Puhites testifies to God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in guiding history toward the incarnation of His Son.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Value of Genealogy in God’s Redemptive Plan

Genealogies in Scripture underscore that God works through real people, families, and generations. From Abraham to David to Jesus, the lineages show the continuity and unfolding of God’s purposes.

2. The Dignity of Every Believer

The Puhites, though obscure, are known to God. Similarly, in Christ, each believer is a vital part of His spiritual household (Ephesians 2:19-22). No service, name, or life is hidden from the Lord.

3. Faithfulness Across Generations

The recording of clans and their descendants also emphasizes intergenerational faithfulness. God calls families to walk before Him, passing down faith and covenant identity from generation to generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

4. Inclusion in the Covenant Community

The Puhites remind us that belonging to the people of God is not about prominence, but about being named and included in His covenant. Today, in Christ, we are “fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household” (Ephesians 2:19).

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think God included even minor families like the Puhites in the biblical genealogies?

2. How does knowing that God values every individual encourage you in your daily walk with Christ?

3. What role does your family heritage or spiritual legacy play in your identity as a believer?

4. How can you help preserve and pass on the faith to the next generation, just as the clans of Israel did?

5. In what ways does the story of even a little-known group like the Puhites point you to Jesus and His work in history?

Though the Puhites only briefly appear in Scripture, their mention reflects a God who does not forget His people—no matter how small their role may seem in the grand narrative. As part of the body of Christ, every member is seen, known, and placed with purpose.