Topical Bible: Tribe of Benjamin: Census of Allotment in the land of Canaan

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The Tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place among the twelve tribes of Israel, being the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The allotment of land to the tribe in the land of Canaan is a pivotal event in the history of Israel, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the inheritance of the Promised Land.

Census and Allotment

The initial census of the Israelites, as recorded in the Book of Numbers, provides a detailed account of the number of men eligible for military service from each tribe. For the Tribe of Benjamin, the census taken in the wilderness of Sinai counted 35,400 men (Numbers 1:36-37). This number reflects the tribe's relatively small size compared to some of the other tribes.

As the Israelites prepared to enter Canaan, a second census was conducted on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho. This census recorded 45,600 men from the Tribe of Benjamin (Numbers 26:41), indicating a growth in the tribe's population during the wilderness wanderings.

The allotment of land to the Tribe of Benjamin is detailed in the Book of Joshua. The land was distributed by casting lots, a method believed to reflect divine will. The territory assigned to Benjamin was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah to the south and Ephraim to the north. This central location included significant cities such as Jericho, Bethel, Gibeon, and Jerusalem, although Jerusalem was not fully controlled by the Israelites at the time (Joshua 18:11-28).

Geographical and Strategic Importance

The territory of Benjamin was characterized by its varied landscape, including fertile valleys and rugged hills. This region served as a critical buffer zone and a crossroads for trade and military routes. The proximity to Jerusalem, which later became the political and spiritual center of Israel, added to the tribe's importance.

Historical and Theological Significance

The Tribe of Benjamin played a crucial role in the history of Israel. Notably, it was the tribe of Israel's first king, Saul, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 9:1-2). Despite its small size, the tribe's strategic location and its members' valor in battle contributed to its influence.

Theologically, the allotment of land to Benjamin, like that of the other tribes, is seen as a fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The division of the land among the tribes underscores the theme of divine providence and faithfulness, as God provided for each tribe according to His plan.

Challenges and Conflicts

The Tribe of Benjamin faced numerous challenges, including internal conflicts and external threats. The infamous incident of the Levite's concubine, which led to a civil war between Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel, is a stark reminder of the moral and social challenges faced by the tribe (Judges 19-21).

Despite these challenges, the Tribe of Benjamin endured and continued to play a vital role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history. The tribe's resilience and strategic importance are evident throughout the biblical record, highlighting its unique place among the tribes of Israel.

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Joshua 18:11-28
And the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families: and the coast of their lot came forth between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph.
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