Ophrah in the Tribe of Benjamin

Ophrah is mentioned in the Bible as a city within the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. This city is referenced in the context of the tribal divisions of the land of Canaan, which were established under the leadership of Joshua following the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land. In Joshua 18:23, Ophrah is listed among the towns belonging to the tribe of Benjamin: "Avvim, Parah, Ophrah" . This inclusion indicates its significance as part of the inheritance given to Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

The city of Ophrah in Benjamin is not extensively detailed in biblical narratives, but its mention in the tribal allotments underscores its role in the broader settlement patterns of the Israelites. The tribe of Benjamin, being strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, played a crucial role in the history of Israel, and Ophrah would have been part of this dynamic region.

Ophrah in the Territory of Ephraim

Another Ophrah is associated with the tribe of Ephraim, most notably as the hometown of Gideon, one of the judges of Israel. This Ophrah is located in the region of the Abiezrites, a clan within the tribe of Manasseh, which is often associated with the territory of Ephraim due to its geographical proximity and shared history. Judges 6:11 introduces this Ophrah: "Then the angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites" .

Gideon's account is a significant part of the biblical narrative, as he was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. The angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon in Ophrah, marking the beginning of his divine commission. This event highlights Ophrah's importance as a place of divine encounter and transformation. Gideon's subsequent actions, including the destruction of his father's altar to Baal and the building of an altar to the LORD, further emphasize Ophrah's role as a site of spiritual renewal and commitment to the covenant with God.

Cultural and Historical Context

The dual mention of Ophrah in the territories of Benjamin and Ephraim reflects the complex tribal and geographical landscape of ancient Israel. The cities and regions often bore witness to significant events in Israel's history, serving as backdrops for divine interventions and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. The presence of Ophrah in both tribal territories illustrates the interconnectedness of the tribes and the shared heritage of the Israelites.

In the broader biblical narrative, cities like Ophrah serve as reminders of the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs and the fulfillment of those promises through the settlement of the land. The accounts associated with these locations, such as Gideon's call and victory, reinforce themes of faith, obedience, and divine deliverance that are central to the biblical message.

Conclusion

Ophrah, whether in the territory of Benjamin or Ephraim, holds a place in the biblical record as a city of significance. Its mention in the tribal allotments and its association with key biblical figures like Gideon highlight its role in the history and spiritual life of ancient Israel. Through the lens of these narratives, Ophrah emerges as a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His purposes for His people.John 11:54
Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went there to a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.
Nave's Topical Index

The Israelites
... as the rest of his brethren; no territory was assigned ... Judah, and it was only in
the city of Laish ... mixed Hebrew and Canaanite inhabitants of Ophrah and Shechem ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter i the israelites.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... was in Shechem."** He dwelt at Ophrah, in the ... of Simeon in the reduction of the city
of Zephath ... obtaining, for a lengthened period, any extension of territory. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

What was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.org

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