Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Nephthalim, also known as Naphtali, is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant (Genesis 30:7-8). The tribe of Nephthalim holds a significant place in biblical history and prophecy, with its territory located in the northern part of the Promised Land. Territory and Geography: The land allotted to the tribe of Nephthalim is described in Joshua 19:32-39. It was situated in the northern region of Canaan, bordered by the tribes of Asher to the west, Zebulun and Issachar to the south, and the Sea of Galilee to the east. This fertile and strategically important area included key cities such as Kedesh, Hazor, and Beth Shemesh. Biblical Significance: Nephthalim is mentioned in several key biblical narratives. During the period of the Judges, Barak, a leader from the tribe of Naphtali, played a crucial role in the defeat of the Canaanite army led by Sisera, under the prophetic guidance of Deborah (Judges 4:6-10). This victory is celebrated in the Song of Deborah (Judges 5). In the New Testament, the region of Nephthalim gains prominence as part of the area where Jesus conducted much of His ministry. Matthew 4:13-15 references the prophecy from Isaiah 9:1-2, highlighting the significance of this region: "Leaving Nazareth, He went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 'Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned.'" Prophetic and Eschatological Role: The tribe of Nephthalim is included in the prophetic blessings given by Jacob and Moses. Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:21 describes Naphtali as "a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns," symbolizing freedom and fruitfulness. Moses' blessing in Deuteronomy 33:23 speaks of Naphtali's favor and blessing from the Lord: "Naphtali is abounding with the favor of the LORD and is full of His blessing; he will inherit southward to the lake." In the eschatological vision of Revelation, the tribe of Naphtali is listed among the twelve tribes of Israel, with 12,000 sealed from each tribe (Revelation 7:6). This inclusion signifies the enduring legacy and role of Nephthalim in God's redemptive plan. Cultural and Historical Context: The tribe of Nephthalim, like other tribes, experienced periods of faithfulness and apostasy. The northern location made it vulnerable to foreign influences and invasions, including the Assyrian conquest, which led to the exile of many inhabitants (2 Kings 15:29). Despite these challenges, the tribe's legacy is preserved through its contributions to Israel's history and its prophetic significance in the biblical narrative. Conclusion: The tribe of Nephthalim, with its rich history and prophetic importance, remains a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plan throughout the Scriptures. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary NephthalimSmith's Bible Dictionary NephthalimA form of the name Naphtali. (Job 7:3; Matthew 4:13,15; Revelation 7:6) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NEPHTHALIMnef'-tha-lim (Matthew 4:13): The Greek form of NAPHTALI (which see). Greek 3508. Nephthalim -- Naphtali, a tribe of Isr. ... 3507, 3508. Nephthalim. 3509 . ... Naphtali. Of Hebrew origin (Naphtaliy); Nephthaleim (ie Naphthali), a tribe in Palestine -- Nephthalim. see HEBREW Naphtaliy. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3508.htm - 6k Library God his Own Interpreter. Light for those who Sit in Darkness The Springing of the Great Light On Genesis. Having Called a Council, the High Priests and Scribes Annas and ... O Lord Jesus Christ, the Resurrection and the Life of the World... O Lord Jesus Christ, the Resurrection and the Life of the Dead... Our Lord Jesus Christ Having Wrought in Jud??a Many and Great and ... Matt. Iv. 12 The Disposition of the Tribes in Galilee. Thesaurus Nephthalim (2 Occurrences)...NEPHTHALIM. nef'-tha-lim (Matthew 4:13): The Greek form of NAPHTALI (which see). Multi-Version Concordance Nephthalim (2 Occurrences). ... /n/nephthalim.htm - 7k Zabulon (2 Occurrences) Nephthar Nephthai Dwelt (307 Occurrences) Borders (104 Occurrences) Coast (70 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Nephthalim (2 Occurrences)Matthew 4:13 Matthew 4:15 Subtopics Related Terms |