Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, holds a significant place in the genealogical records of the Bible. His lineage is detailed in various passages, reflecting both his role as the eldest son and the consequences of his actions.

Reuben's Birth and Family Context

Reuben was born to Jacob and Leah, as recorded in Genesis 29:32: "And Leah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Reuben, for she said, 'The LORD has seen my affliction. Surely now my husband will love me.'" As the firstborn, Reuben was initially entitled to the birthright, which included leadership of the family and a double portion of the inheritance.

Reuben's Actions and Consequences

Despite his status, Reuben's actions led to significant consequences. In Genesis 35:22, it is recorded that Reuben lay with Bilhah, his father’s concubine, an act that had lasting repercussions: "While Israel was living in that region, Reuben went and slept with his father’s concubine Bilhah, and Israel heard of it." This transgression cost Reuben his birthright, as Jacob later declared in Genesis 49:3-4: "Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, excelling in honor, excelling in power. Uncontrolled as the waters, you will no longer excel, because you went up to your father’s bed, onto my couch and defiled it."

Reuben's Descendants

The genealogical records of Reuben's descendants are found in several passages. In Genesis 46:9, during the migration to Egypt, Reuben's sons are listed: "The sons of Reuben: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi." These names are reiterated in Exodus 6:14 and 1 Chronicles 5:3, emphasizing their role in the tribal structure of Israel.

Tribe of Reuben

The tribe of Reuben, descended from Reuben's sons, played a distinct role in the history of Israel. In the wilderness, the tribe was counted separately, as noted in Numbers 1:20-21: "From the descendants of Reuben the firstborn of Israel: their genealogies according to their clans and families, with the names of every male twenty years old or older, everyone who could serve in the army, those registered to the tribe of Reuben numbered 46,500."

Settlement and Legacy

The tribe of Reuben settled on the east side of the Jordan River, as described in Numbers 32:1-5. They requested this land due to its suitability for their livestock, and Moses granted their request with conditions. The tribe's location and actions are further detailed in Joshua 13:15-23, where their inheritance is outlined.

Despite Reuben's initial fall from grace, his descendants continued to play a role in the unfolding narrative of Israel. The tribe's history is marked by both its early transgressions and its contributions to the nation of Israel.