Benhesed is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings. He is noted as one of the twelve officials appointed by King Solomon to provide provisions for the king and his household. Each official was responsible for supplying provisions for one month of the year, ensuring the sustenance and smooth operation of the royal court.

Biblical Reference:

Benhesed is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:10 : "Benhesed in Arubboth (Socoh and all the land of Hepher were his)."

Role and Responsibilities:

Benhesed's role as one of Solomon's twelve district governors was crucial in maintaining the prosperity and stability of Solomon's reign. The division of the kingdom into twelve districts for administrative purposes reflects Solomon's wisdom in governance, ensuring that the burden of provision was evenly distributed across the land. Each governor, including Benhesed, was responsible for collecting and delivering the necessary supplies from their respective regions to support the king's extensive household and administrative needs.

Geographical Jurisdiction:

Benhesed was in charge of the district of Arubboth, which included the areas of Socoh and all the land of Hepher. The specific mention of these locations indicates the geographical scope of his responsibilities. Arubboth, Socoh, and Hepher were regions within the territory of ancient Israel, and Benhesed's management of these areas would have involved overseeing agricultural production, resource allocation, and possibly local governance.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The appointment of officials like Benhesed highlights the organized and centralized nature of Solomon's administration. This system allowed for efficient management of resources and contributed to the wealth and splendor of Solomon's kingdom, as described in the biblical narrative. The mention of specific regions under each official's care also provides insight into the territorial divisions and local governance structures of ancient Israel during Solomon's reign.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the account of Benhesed and the other district governors underscores the biblical theme of wise and just leadership. Solomon's ability to delegate responsibilities and manage his kingdom effectively is often seen as a reflection of divine wisdom granted to him by God. This narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of stewardship, organization, and the equitable distribution of resources in accordance with God's principles.

In summary, Benhesed's role as one of Solomon's officials illustrates the administrative acumen of Solomon's reign and the broader themes of governance and stewardship found throughout the biblical text. His mention, though brief, contributes to the understanding of the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel under Solomon's rule.BEN-HESED

ben-he'-sed (ben-checedh, "son of Hesed"; the King James Version son of Hesed; the word is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to be kind"): A commissariat officer in the service of Solomon (1 Kings 4:10).

Benhesed

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Ben-hesed (1 Occurrence)
Ben-hesed. Benhesed, Ben-hesed. Ben-hinnom . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BEN-HESED. ... Benhesed, Ben-hesed. Ben-hinnom . Reference Bible.
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Ben-hanon (1 Occurrence)
Ben-hanon. Ben-ha'nan, Ben-hanon. Benhesed . Multi-Version Concordance
Ben-hanon (1 Occurrence). ... (YLT). Ben-ha'nan, Ben-hanon. Benhesed . Reference
/b/ben-hanon.htm - 6k

Hepher (11 Occurrences)
... (2) In 1 Kings 4:10 a district connected with Socoh, and placed by Solomon under
the direction of Benhesed of Arubboth, unidentified. HEPHER; HEPHERITES. ...
/h/hepher.htm - 11k

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