Bela, also referred to as Belah in some translations, is a biblical figure recognized as the firstborn son of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. His name, Bela, is derived from the Hebrew word meaning "destruction" or "devouring," which may reflect the turbulent times or the characteristics of the tribe he founded.

Genealogy and Family Lineage

Bela is prominently mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. In Genesis 46:21, the sons of Benjamin are listed as part of the family that went down to Egypt during the time of Joseph: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard."

The tribe of Benjamin, from which Bela descends, holds a significant place among the tribes of Israel. As the firstborn of Benjamin, Bela's lineage is often highlighted in the genealogical accounts, underscoring his importance in the tribal hierarchy.

Tribal Significance

Bela's descendants formed one of the clans within the tribe of Benjamin. In Numbers 26:38-40, during the census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the sons of Bela are enumerated: "The descendants of Benjamin by their clans were: the Belaite clan from Bela, the Ashbelite clan from Ashbel, the Ahiramite clan from Ahiram, the Shuphamite clan from Shupham, and the Huphamite clan from Hupham."

The clan of Bela played a role in the military and social structure of the tribe of Benjamin. As part of the tribe, Bela's descendants would have participated in the various events and battles that shaped the history of Israel, including the conquest of Canaan and the subsequent settlement in the Promised Land.

Historical Context

The tribe of Benjamin, including the clan of Bela, was known for its fierce warriors and strategic location. Situated between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, Benjamin often found itself at the center of Israel's political and military affairs. The tribe's reputation for valor is exemplified in the account of the Benjamite warriors in Judges 20, where they are described as skilled fighters.

Legacy

Bela's legacy is preserved through the biblical genealogies and the historical narratives of the tribe of Benjamin. His descendants contributed to the rich tapestry of Israel's history, and his name is remembered as part of the foundational lineage of one of Israel's twelve tribes. The tribe of Benjamin, despite its small size, produced significant figures in Israel's history, including King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in the early Christian church.

Bela's mention in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel and their foundational role in the unfolding account of God's people.Genesis 46:21
And the sons of Benjamin were Belah, and Becher, and Ashbel, Gera, and Naaman, Ehi, and Rosh, Muppim, and Huppim, and Ard.
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