Topical Bible: Jerusalem: Falls to Benjamin in the Allotment of the Land of Canaan

◄ Jerusalem: Falls to Benjamin in the Allotment of the Land of Canaan ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Jerusalem, a city of profound historical and theological significance, is first mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest and settlement of Canaan. The city, known for its ancient roots and central role in biblical narratives, was initially allotted to the tribe of Benjamin during the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical Allotment to Benjamin

The allotment of Jerusalem to the tribe of Benjamin is recorded in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the land among the tribes following the Israelites' entrance into Canaan. In Joshua 18:28, the city is listed among the towns given to Benjamin: "Zelah, Haeleph, Jebus (that is, Jerusalem), Gibeah, and Kiriath—fourteen cities, along with their villages. This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin" . Here, Jerusalem is referred to as "Jebus," a name reflecting its Jebusite inhabitants at the time.

Historical Context and Significance

Jerusalem's inclusion in Benjamin's territory is significant due to its strategic location and its later prominence as the political and spiritual center of Israel. The city's position on the border between Benjamin and Judah would later play a crucial role in its history, especially during the reigns of King David and King Solomon.

The Jebusites, the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, maintained control of the city even after its allotment to Benjamin. This is evidenced in Judges 1:21, which states, "The Benjamites, however, failed to drive out the Jebusites living in Jerusalem. So to this day, the Jebusites live there with the Benjamites" . This coexistence continued until King David's conquest of the city, which established it as the capital of the united kingdom of Israel.

Theological Implications

The allotment of Jerusalem to Benjamin holds theological implications, as it foreshadows the city's future role in God's redemptive plan. Despite its initial Jebusite control, Jerusalem's destiny as a central place of worship and governance was divinely orchestrated. The city's eventual capture by David and its establishment as the site of the Temple under Solomon underscore its significance in biblical history.

Jerusalem's allocation to Benjamin also highlights the theme of God's sovereignty in the distribution of the land. Each tribe's inheritance was determined by lot, a process believed to reflect divine will. Thus, Jerusalem's assignment to Benjamin, despite its later association with Judah, illustrates the unfolding of God's purposes through the complexities of human history.

Conclusion

The allotment of Jerusalem to the tribe of Benjamin marks an early chapter in the city's storied biblical narrative. While initially under Jebusite control, its inclusion in Benjamin's territory set the stage for its future as the heart of Israel's religious and political life. Through the lens of Scripture, Jerusalem's journey from a Jebusite stronghold to the city of David reveals the intricate tapestry of divine providence and human agency in the biblical account.

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Joshua 18:28
And Zelah, Eleph, and Jebusi, which is Jerusalem, Gibeath, and Kirjath; fourteen cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.
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