Ben-geber is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King Solomon's administrative organization of the kingdom of Israel. His name, "Ben-geber," translates to "son of Geber," indicating his lineage. He is one of the twelve district governors appointed by Solomon to provide provisions for the king and his household, each responsible for one month of the year.

Biblical Reference:

Ben-geber is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:13, which states: "Ben-geber in Ramoth-gilead (the towns of Jair the son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead, were his, as well as the region of Argob in Bashan, with its sixty great cities with walls and bronze bars)."

Role and Responsibilities:

As one of Solomon's twelve governors, Ben-geber's role was crucial in maintaining the prosperity and stability of Solomon's reign. His jurisdiction included the region of Ramoth-gilead, a significant area east of the Jordan River. This region was known for its strategic importance and fertile land, making it a valuable asset to the kingdom.

Ben-geber's responsibilities included overseeing the collection of provisions and ensuring the efficient administration of his district. The mention of "sixty great cities with walls and bronze bars" under his charge highlights the extent and significance of his authority. These cities were fortified, indicating their importance in defense and trade.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Ramoth-gilead, where Ben-geber governed, was a city of refuge and a Levitical city, emphasizing its religious and cultural significance. The region of Gilead was known for its balm, a valuable commodity in ancient times. The towns of Jair, mentioned in the passage, were part of the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, indicating the tribal affiliations and historical claims to the land.

The region of Argob in Bashan, also under Ben-geber's jurisdiction, was noted for its fertile plains and strong cities. Bashan was famous for its oaks and cattle, contributing to the wealth and resources available to the kingdom.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the appointment of Ben-geber and the other governors reflects the wisdom and organizational skills attributed to Solomon. It demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon for a prosperous and well-ordered kingdom. The division of the kingdom into administrative districts ensured that the needs of the royal household were met, allowing Solomon to focus on governance, construction projects, and the spiritual life of the nation.

Ben-geber's role also illustrates the broader theme of stewardship and responsibility in the Bible. As a governor, he was entrusted with significant resources and authority, serving as an example of leadership and accountability under God's sovereign plan.

Conclusion:

Ben-geber's mention, though brief, provides insight into the administrative structure of Solomon's kingdom and the importance of effective governance in maintaining the prosperity and stability of Israel. His role as a district governor underscores the themes of stewardship, responsibility, and the fulfillment of divine promises in the biblical narrative.1 Kings 4:13
The son of Geber, in Ramothgilead; to him pertained the towns of Jair the son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; to him also pertained the region of Argob, which is in Bashan, three score great cities with walls and brazen bars:
Nave's Topical Index

BEN-GEBER

ben-ge'-ber (ben-gebher, "son of Geber"; the King James Version son of Geber; the word is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to be strong." Compare HPN, 66, 69): One of the twelve commissariat officers in the service of Solomon (1 Kings 4:13).

1127. Ben-geber -- "son of a man," one of Solomon's leaders
Ben-geber. 1126, 1127. Ben-geber. 1128 . "son of a man," one of Solomon's
leaders. Transliteration: Ben-geber Phonetic Spelling ...
/hebrew/1127.htm - 6kBengeber
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-GEBER. ben-ge'-ber (ben-gebher, "son
of Geber"; the King James Version son of Geber; the word ...
/b/bengeber.htm - 6k

Ben-geber (1 Occurrence)
Ben-geber. Bengeber, Ben-geber. Benhadad . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BEN-GEBER. ... Bengeber, Ben-geber. Benhadad . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-geber.htm - 7k

Geber (9 Occurrences)
... Version the father of one of the 12 officers who provided food for Solomon and his
household (but here the Revised Version (British and American) "Ben-geber"). ...
/g/geber.htm - 10k

Ramoth-gilead (20 Occurrences)
... 1. History: Here Ben-geber was placed in charge of one of Solomon's administrative
districts (1 Kings 4:13), which included Havvoth-jair and "the region of ...
/r/ramoth-gilead.htm - 20k

Ja'ir (8 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:13 BenGeber, in Ramoth Gilead (to him pertained the towns of Jair the
son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; even to him pertained (See RSV). ...
/j/ja'ir.htm - 8k

Ramoth (30 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:13 BenGeber, in Ramoth Gilead (to him pertained the towns of Jair the
son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; even to him pertained (WEB KJV JPS ASV ...
/r/ramoth.htm - 18k

Ramothgilead (19 Occurrences)
... 1. History: Here Ben-geber was placed in charge of one of Solomon's administrative
districts (1 Kings 4:13), which included Havvoth-jair and "the region of ...
/r/ramothgilead.htm - 19k

Ra'moth-gil'ead (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Kings 4:13 BenGeber, in Ramoth Gilead (to him pertained the towns of Jair the
son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; even to him pertained (See RSV). ...
/r/ra'moth-gil'ead.htm - 6k

Pertained (18 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:13 BenGeber, in Ramoth Gilead (to him pertained the towns of Jair the
son of Manasseh, which are in Gilead; even to him pertained (WEB KJV JPS ASV ...
/p/pertained.htm - 12k

Benevolence (2 Occurrences)

/b/benevolence.htm - 8k

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