עֵרָן (e.ran)

e.ran

Eran

H6197 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

N:N-M-P

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 1 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Eran appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, listed as a son of Shuthelah and brother of Bered in Numbers 26:36. He is identified as an Ephraimite during the wilderness generation, serving as a genealogical link within the tribe of Joseph.

Lexicographers typically derive the name from a root meaning "watcher" or "vigilant." While this etymology suggests a personal characteristic or divine protection, the text itself offers no narrative detail about Eran’s life. His mention is strictly functional, preserving the lineage for the census of Israel before they entered the Promised Land.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Names in Scripture often feel like distant footnotes, yet they carry weight in God’s record. Eran appears only once, listed among the sons of Shuthelah in Numbers 26:36. This brief mention preserves his place within the tribe of Ephraim during the census before Israel entered the Promised Land.

Though we have no story about his daily life, his inclusion reminds us that God keeps track of every individual. His name, possibly meaning "watcher," suggests a role of vigilance or protection, fitting for someone in a lineage chosen to inherit land. This small detail shows that no one is overlooked in the grand narrative of salvation.

For your faith, this offers comfort. You are known by name, just as Eran was recorded. God’s plan includes every person, even those whose names appear only once. Trust that your life, however quiet it may seem, is part of His faithful history.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

of/ Eran1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

לְ/עֵרָ֕ן1×

Key Verses

Numbers 26:36
These are the sons of Shuthelah: of Eran, the family of the Eranites.

This verse lists Eran as a son of Shuthelah, establishing his identity within the Ephraimite family structure during the wilderness census.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Eran in the Bible?

Eran is a minor figure mentioned only in Numbers 26:36. He is identified as a son of Shuthelah and a brother of Bered, belonging to the tribe of Ephraim. His name appears in a genealogical list during the census before Israel entered Canaan.

What does the name Eran mean?

The name is generally derived from a Hebrew root meaning "watcher" or "vigilant." While the text does not explain its significance, this etymology suggests a characteristic of alertness or divine protection for those in his lineage.

Why is Eran included in Scripture?

His inclusion serves a functional purpose in preserving the genealogy of the tribe of Ephraim. It demonstrates God’s attention to detail in recording every family line, ensuring that each individual’s place in Israel’s history is maintained.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Numbers 1 verse

Numbers 26:36

These are the sons of Shuthelah: of Eran, the family of the Eranites.