Bela, the firstborn son of Benjamin, is a significant figure in the genealogical records of the Israelite tribes. His lineage is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament, highlighting his role in the establishment of the tribe of Benjamin.

Genealogical Record

Bela is introduced in the Book of Genesis as one of the sons of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. In Genesis 46:21 , the text states: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard." This passage lists Bela as the first among Benjamin's sons, indicating his prominence in the family line.

Tribal Significance

The descendants of Bela formed one of the major clans within the tribe of Benjamin. In the census of the Israelites recorded in the Book of Numbers, the descendants of Bela are enumerated, underscoring their importance within the tribe. Numbers 26:38 states: "The descendants of Benjamin by their clans were: the Belaite clan from Bela, the Ashbelite clan from Ashbel, the Ahiramite clan from Ahiram."

Role in Israel's History

The tribe of Benjamin, including the clan of Bela, played a crucial role in the history of Israel. The tribe was known for its skilled warriors and strategic location between the northern and southern tribes. The Benjaminites were involved in several key events, including the defense of Israel during times of conflict and their participation in the united monarchy under King Saul, who was himself a Benjaminite.

Legacy

Bela's legacy is preserved through the genealogical records that emphasize the continuity and faithfulness of God's promises to the patriarchs. The tribe of Benjamin, despite its small size, maintained a distinct identity and contributed to the spiritual and political life of Israel. The mention of Bela and his descendants serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring the growth and prosperity of their descendants.

Biblical References

· Genesis 46:21
· Numbers 26:38
· 1 Chronicles 7:6
· 1 Chronicles 8:1-3

Bela's inclusion in these genealogical records highlights the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the biblical narrative, reflecting the broader themes of covenant, identity, and divine providence that run throughout the Scriptures.Numbers 26:38,40
The sons of Benjamin after their families: of Bela, the family of the Belaites: of Ashbel, the family of the Ashbelites: of Ahiram, the family of the Ahiramites:
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 7:6,7
The sons of Benjamin; Bela, and Becher, and Jediael, three.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 8:1,3
Now Benjamin begat Bela his firstborn, Ashbel the second, and Aharah the third,
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... It regroups Benjamin's descendants. ... To Bela it gives six sons: Gera, Naaman, Ehi,
Rosh, Muppim and Huppim. But to Gera it ascribes one son: Ard. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... old" [2825] which was formerly called Bela [2826] and ... hill that pertained to Phinehas
his son." [2856] She ... and where the tribe of Benjamin anticipated Romulus ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

Conflicts of the Church with Public Wrongs.
... lapse of time outshine even that of his illustrious son. ... the same cause were Joshua
Leavitt, Bela B. Edwards ... was the classical essay of Dr. Benjamin Rush (1785 ...
/.../bacon/a history of american christianity/chapter xvi conflicts of the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... of any king occurred, he was immediately replaced by his son, the notaries ... cities
of the Dead Sea"Sodom, Gomorrah, Adamah, Zeboim, and Bela"revolted against ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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