Topical Encyclopedia Ben is a lesser-known figure in the biblical narrative, identified as a Levite. The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The tribe of Levi did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes, as their inheritance was the Lord Himself and the service of His sanctuary (Numbers 18:20-24).Biblical References: Ben is mentioned in the context of the genealogies and lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. In 1 Chronicles 15:18, Ben is listed among the Levites appointed by King David to assist in bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The passage reads: "and with them their relatives of the second rank: Zechariah, Ben, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel, the gatekeepers." This mention places Ben in a significant historical and religious context, as the transportation of the Ark was a pivotal event in Israel's history. The Ark represented God's presence among His people, and its relocation to Jerusalem under David's leadership marked a unifying moment for the nation. Role and Significance: As a Levite, Ben's role would have been integral to the worship and religious practices of Israel. The Levites were responsible for various duties, including the care of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), the performance of music and song during worship, and the teaching of the Law to the people. In 1 Chronicles 15, the Levites, including Ben, are specifically noted for their musical contributions, highlighting the importance of worship in the life of Israel. The mention of Ben in the context of the Ark's transportation underscores the collaborative effort of the Levites in fulfilling their God-given responsibilities. It also reflects the broader theme of obedience and reverence for God's commands, as the proper handling of the Ark was crucial to maintaining the sanctity of God's presence. Historical Context: The period of King David's reign was marked by the consolidation of Israel's tribes into a unified kingdom. David's desire to bring the Ark to Jerusalem was part of his effort to establish the city as the political and spiritual center of Israel. The involvement of the Levites, including Ben, in this process highlights their essential role in the religious life of the nation. The Levites' service was not only a matter of ritual but also a means of preserving the covenant relationship between God and Israel. By fulfilling their duties, the Levites helped ensure that the people remained faithful to the covenant and that the worship of Yahweh was conducted according to His instructions. Theological Implications: Ben's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, serves as a reminder of the importance of every individual's contribution to the community of faith. The Levites, as a tribe, were set apart for service to God, and each member, including Ben, played a part in the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan for His people. The role of the Levites also points to the necessity of holiness and obedience in worship. The careful handling of the Ark and the involvement of the Levites in its transportation reflect the broader biblical principle that God is to be approached with reverence and awe. In summary, while Ben may not be a prominent figure in the biblical text, his role as a Levite during a significant event in Israel's history highlights the collective responsibility of God's people to uphold His commands and honor His presence among them. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 15:18And with them their brothers of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 1122. Ben -- a Levite... Ben. 1123 . a Levite. Transliteration: Ben Phonetic Spelling: (bane) Short Definition: Ben. Word Origin from ben Definition a Levite NASB Word Usage Ben (1). ... /hebrew/1122.htm - 6k 1148. Beninu -- perhaps "our son," a Levite Library The Upbringing of Jewish Children Simeon Jericho Itself. Knox in the War of the Congregation: the Regent Attacked: Her ... In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned The Nations of the South-East Hebrews vi. 7, 8 Acts iv. 23 Ancestors of the Blessed virgin The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who are the Black Hebrews / Black Israelites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Baasha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Theophilus at the beginning of Luke and Acts? | GotQuestions.org Ben: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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