Ehud, the son of Bilhan, is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. He is identified as a descendant of Benjamin, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in Israel's history, being one of the twelve tribes that formed the nation of Israel.

Genealogical Context

Ehud is listed in the genealogies found in 1 Chronicles 7:10: "The sons of Jediael: Bilhan. And the sons of Bilhan: Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar." . This passage places Ehud within the lineage of Jediael, a descendant of Benjamin. The genealogies in Chronicles serve to establish the tribal and familial lines of the Israelites, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people through their ancestry.

Tribal Significance

The tribe of Benjamin, to which Ehud belongs, is notable for its strategic location and military prowess. Situated between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, Benjamin played a crucial role in the defense and politics of ancient Israel. The tribe produced several significant leaders, including King Saul, Israel's first king, and the Apostle Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus.

Historical and Theological Implications

While Ehud, son of Bilhan, does not have a detailed narrative or specific exploits recorded in the biblical text, his inclusion in the genealogies underscores the importance of every member within the covenant community of Israel. Each name in these records represents a link in the chain of God's unfolding plan for His people. The genealogies highlight the faithfulness of God in preserving His chosen people and fulfilling His promises through successive generations.

The mention of Ehud also serves as a reminder of the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty in history. Even those who appear briefly in the scriptural record contribute to the tapestry of God's redemptive work. The genealogies affirm that every individual, regardless of their prominence or obscurity, has a place in God's divine purposes.

Conclusion

Ehud, son of Bilhan, though not a central figure in biblical narratives, is part of the rich tapestry of Israel's history. His mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles reflects the continuity of God's covenant with His people and the significance of each member within the community of faith. Through the lineage of Benjamin, the tribe to which Ehud belongs, God continued to work out His redemptive plan for Israel and, ultimately, for all humanity.1 Chronicles 7:10
The sons also of Jediael; Bilhan: and the sons of Bilhan; Jeush, and Benjamin, and Ehud, and Chenaanah, and Zethan, and Tharshish, and Ahishahar.
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Ehud? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Shamgar? | GotQuestions.org

What can we learn from the tribe of Benjamin? | GotQuestions.org

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