Ben-deker is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings. He is one of the twelve district governors appointed by King Solomon to provide provisions for the king and his household. Each governor was responsible for supplying provisions for one month of the year, ensuring the smooth operation of Solomon's extensive and prosperous kingdom.

Biblical Reference:
Ben-deker is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:9. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Ben-deker in Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan." This passage is part of a larger section that lists the names and jurisdictions of Solomon's twelve officers.

Role and Responsibilities:
As a district governor, Ben-deker's primary responsibility was to oversee the collection and delivery of food and other necessary supplies from his assigned region. His jurisdiction included the areas of Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan. These locations were part of the larger territory of Israel, and each had its own significance and resources that contributed to the wealth and stability of Solomon's reign.

Historical and Geographical Context:
The regions under Ben-deker's charge were strategically important. Beth-shemesh, for example, was a Levitical city located in the territory of Judah, known for its fertile land and agricultural productivity. Shaalbim was situated in the territory of Dan, while Elon-beth-hanan's exact location is less certain but is believed to be in the vicinity of these other towns. The efficient management of these areas was crucial for maintaining the economic strength of Solomon's kingdom.

Significance in Solomon's Administration:
The appointment of district governors like Ben-deker reflects the administrative sophistication of Solomon's reign. By dividing the kingdom into manageable districts, Solomon ensured a steady flow of resources to support his court and the construction projects for which he is renowned, including the Temple in Jerusalem. This system also highlights the organizational skills and wisdom attributed to Solomon, as he was able to maintain peace and prosperity throughout his kingdom.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the account of Ben-deker and the other governors underscores the biblical theme of divine order and governance. Solomon's wisdom in administration is seen as a gift from God, fulfilling the promise made to him in 1 Kings 3:12, where God grants him unparalleled wisdom and discernment. The effective governance of the kingdom under Solomon's rule is viewed as a reflection of God's blessing upon Israel during this period.

In summary, Ben-deker's role as a district governor under King Solomon illustrates the organized and prosperous nature of Israel during Solomon's reign. His responsibilities and the regions he managed contributed to the overall success and stability of the kingdom, serving as a testament to the wisdom and divine favor bestowed upon Solomon.BEN-DEKER

ben-de'-ker (ben-deqer, "son of Deker," the King James Version "son of Dekar"): The word is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to pierce." Compare HPN, 69. One of the 12 officers who provided victuals for King Solomon and his household (1 Kings 4:9).

1128. Ben-deqer -- "son of Deker," one of Solomon's leaders
... Ben-deqer. 1129 . "son of Deker," one of Solomon's leaders. Transliteration:
Ben-deqer Phonetic Spelling: (ben-deh'-ker) Short Definition: Ben-deker. ...
/hebrew/1128.htm - 6kBendeker
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-DEKER. ben-de'-ker (ben-deqer, "son
of Deker," the King James Version "son of Dekar"): The word ...
/b/bendeker.htm - 6k

Ben-deker (1 Occurrence)
Ben-deker. Bendeker, Ben-deker. Bendeth . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BEN-DEKER. ... Bendeker, Ben-deker. Bendeth . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-deker.htm - 7k

Shaalbim (2 Occurrences)
... In the time of Solomon it was included in the administrative district presided over
by Ben-deker, along with Makaz, Beth-shemesh and Elon-beth-hanan (1 Kings 4 ...
/s/shaalbim.htm - 8k

Elon (8 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:9 BenDeker, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth Shemesh, and
Elon Beth Hanan; (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/e/elon.htm - 10k

Elon-beth-hanan (1 Occurrence)
... Elon-beth-hanan (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 Ben-deker, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim,
and Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan; (ASV DBY JPS WBS YLT). ...
/e/elon-beth-hanan.htm - 7k

E'lonbeth-Ha'nan (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance E'lonbeth-Ha'nan (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 BenDeker,
in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth Shemesh, and Elon Beth Hanan; (See RSV). ...
/e/e'lonbeth-ha'nan.htm - 6k

Deker (1 Occurrence)
... Deker (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 BenDeker, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth
Shemesh, and Elon Beth Hanan; (WEB JPS ASV BBE DBY NAS RSV NIV). ...
/d/deker.htm - 6k

Makaz (1 Occurrence)
... Makaz (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 BenDeker, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth
Shemesh, and Elon Beth Hanan; (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/m/makaz.htm - 7k

Ben (40 Occurrences)
... NIV). 1 Kings 4:9 BenDeker, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Beth Shemesh,
and Elon Beth Hanan; (WEB ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Kings ...
/b/ben.htm - 20k

Bendeth (4 Occurrences)

/b/bendeth.htm - 7k

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