Ezbon is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribes of Israel. He is recognized as one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Gad was the seventh son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The descendants of Gad formed one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for their valor and strength in battle.

Biblical References:

Ezbon is listed among the sons of Gad in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 46:16 , the passage states: "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli." This verse places Ezbon within the context of the family lineage as the fourth son of Gad.

In the Book of Numbers, a parallel account of the descendants of Gad is provided, but with a variation in the name. Numbers 26:16 refers to him as Ozni: "These were the descendants of Gad by their clans: The Ozni clan from Ozni, the Eri clan from Eri." This suggests that Ezbon may have been known by another name, Ozni, or that there was a textual variation in the transmission of the genealogical records.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Gad, to which Ezbon belonged, was known for its military prowess. Positioned on the eastern side of the Jordan River, the tribe played a significant role in the defense and expansion of the Israelite territories. The Gadites were renowned for their skills as warriors, as described in 1 Chronicles 12:8 : "Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were mighty men of valor, trained for battle, expert with shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles on the mountains."

Genealogical Context:

Ezbon's mention in the genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in the biblical narrative. The genealogies served not only as records of ancestry but also as a means of establishing the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, particularly the promise of numerous descendants and the inheritance of the land.

Name Variations and Interpretations:

The variation in Ezbon's name, appearing as Ozni in the Book of Numbers, highlights the complexities of ancient textual transmission and the possibility of different traditions or scribal practices. Such variations are not uncommon in biblical genealogies and often reflect the rich tapestry of oral and written traditions that contributed to the formation of the biblical text.

In summary, Ezbon, also known as Ozni, is a figure rooted in the tribal history of Israel, representing the enduring legacy of the sons of Gad. His inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the continuity of God's covenantal promises through the generations of Israel.Numbers 26:16
Of Ozni, the family of the Oznites: of Eri, the family of the Erites:
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten ... And the sons of Gad: Ziphion,
and Haggi, Shuni ... listed in Numbers as "Zephon." "Ezbon" becomes "Ozni ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Who was Gad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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