Benai is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Simeon. His name appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Chronicles. The name "Benai" is derived from the Hebrew root "bānā," which means "to build" or "to construct," suggesting a possible connotation of strength or establishment.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Chronicles 4:36 : Benai is listed among the descendants of Simeon. The verse states: "And Elioenai, Jaakobah, Jeshohaiah, Asaiah, Adiel, Jesimiel, and Benaiah." In this context, Benai is mentioned alongside other members of the Simeonite lineage, indicating his place within the tribal structure. It is important to note that the name "Benaiah" appears in this verse, which is often considered a variant or a scribal error for "Benai."

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Simeon was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. The Simeonites were allotted land within the territory of Judah, as described in the book of Joshua. Over time, the tribe of Simeon became somewhat absorbed into the larger tribe of Judah, which may explain the limited mention of individual Simeonite figures like Benai in the biblical narrative.

Historical and Theological Significance:

While Benai himself does not play a prominent role in biblical events, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical tradition. Genealogies served to establish identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliations, which were crucial for maintaining the social and religious order of ancient Israel.

From a theological perspective, the mention of Benai and other Simeonites highlights the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with the people of Israel. Each tribe, regardless of its size or prominence, was part of the collective identity of God's chosen people. The genealogies remind readers of the continuity of God's promises through successive generations.

Conservative Christian Interpretation:

In conservative Christian thought, the genealogies, including the mention of figures like Benai, are often viewed as affirmations of the historical reliability of the biblical text. They are seen as evidence of God's providential care in preserving the lineage through which the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would eventually come. The detailed records reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for humanity.

While Benai may not be a central figure in biblical history, his presence in the genealogical record serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in maintaining the integrity and continuity of His people throughout the ages.Benai (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 24:23
And the sons of Hebron: Jeriah the chief, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the third, Jekameam the fourth.
(See JPS)

Benai (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Benai (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 24:23 And the sons
of Hebron: Jeriah the chief, Amariah the second, Jahaziel ...
/b/benai.htm - 6k

Benai'ah (43 Occurrences)
Benai'ah. Benaiah, Benai'ah. Benammi . Multi-Version Concordance
Benai'ah (43 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 8:18 and Benaiah ...
/b/benai'ah.htm - 18k

Benaiah (44 Occurrences)

/b/benaiah.htm - 26k

Benammi (1 Occurrence)

/b/benammi.htm - 9k

Jeri'ah (2 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 24:23 And Benai, Jeriah, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the
third, Jekameam the fourth. (See RSV). Jeriah, Jeri'ah. Jeribai . ...
/j/jeri'ah.htm - 6k

Jaha'ziel (6 Occurrences)
... fourth. (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 24:23 And Benai, Jeriah, Amariah the second,
Jahaziel the third, Jekameam the fourth. (See RSV). 2 ...
/j/jaha'ziel.htm - 7k

Jekame'am (2 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 24:23 And Benai, Jeriah, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the
third, Jekameam the fourth. (See RSV). Jekameam, Jekame'am. Jekamiah . ...
/j/jekame'am.htm - 6k

Ben-ahilud (1 Occurrence)
Ben-ahilud. Ben-abin'adab, Ben-ahilud. Benai . Multi-Version Concordance
Ben-ahilud (1 Occurrence). ... (YLT). Ben-abin'adab, Ben-ahilud. Benai . Reference ...
/b/ben-ahilud.htm - 6k

Amari'ah (13 Occurrences)
... fourth. (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 24:23 And Benai, Jeriah, Amariah the second,
Jahaziel the third, Jekameam the fourth. (See RSV). 2 ...
/a/amari'ah.htm - 9k

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