Ezbon is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament 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 warrior skills.

Biblical References:

Ezbon is specifically mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. In Genesis 46:16, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli." This passage is part of the larger narrative describing the migration of Jacob's family to Egypt during the time of Joseph, who had risen to power in Pharaoh's court. The listing of Ezbon among the sons of Gad highlights his role as a progenitor of one of the families within the tribe.

In Numbers 26:16, during the census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the descendants of Ezbon are again mentioned: "The descendants of Gad by their clans: through Zephon, the Zephonite clan; through Haggi, the Haggite clan; through Shuni, the Shunite clan; through Ozni, the Oznite clan." Here, Ezbon is referred to as Ozni, which is considered a variant of his name. This census was conducted to organize the Israelites for their eventual settlement in the Promised Land, and it underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the Israelite community.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Gad, to which Ezbon belonged, was allocated land on the eastern side of the Jordan River, along with the tribes of Reuben and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This territory was known for its fertile pastures, suitable for the tribe's livestock. The Gadites were renowned for their military prowess, 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."

Cultural and Historical Context:

Ezbon's mention in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israel. The genealogies in the Bible are not merely lists of names but are integral to understanding the social and religious structure of the Israelite people. Each name represents a link in the chain of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the fulfillment of these promises through the nation of Israel.

The tribe of Gad, including the descendants of Ezbon, played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of the kingdom under David. The legacy of the Gadites, as fierce warriors and loyal supporters of the Davidic monarchy, reflects the enduring strength and faithfulness of the tribe.

In summary, Ezbon, as a son of Gad, is a figure whose mention in the biblical genealogies underscores the continuity of God's covenant with His people and the integral role of each tribe in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history.Genesis 46:16
And the sons of Gad; Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni, and Ezbon, Eri, and Arodi, and Areli.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... Of Simeon it is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten of a
"Canaanitish ... And the sons of Gad: Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni and Ezbon, Eri and ...
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Who was Gad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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