Topical Bible: Tribe of Benjamin: Census of During the reign of Asa

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The Tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. During the reign of Asa, the third king of Judah, the tribe was noted for its military prowess and strategic importance. Asa, a descendant of David, ruled the southern kingdom of Judah from approximately 911 to 870 BC. His reign is characterized by religious reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom against external threats.

The biblical account of the census of the Tribe of Benjamin during Asa's reign is found in 2 Chronicles 14:8. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Asa had an army of 300,000 men from Judah bearing large shields and spears, and 280,000 men from Benjamin bearing small shields and drawing the bow. All these were mighty men of valor."

This passage highlights the significant contribution of the Benjaminites to Asa's military forces. The tribe provided 280,000 warriors, skilled in the use of small shields and the bow, indicating their role as archers and light infantry. The description of these men as "mighty men of valor" underscores their reputation for bravery and effectiveness in battle.

The Tribe of Benjamin's military capabilities were crucial during Asa's reign, particularly in the context of his conflicts with neighboring nations. Asa's reliance on the Benjaminites reflects their strategic importance in the defense of Judah. The tribe's location, bordering the northern kingdom of Israel, made it a frontline defense against potential invasions.

Historically, the Tribe of Benjamin had a reputation for producing skilled warriors. This legacy is evident in earlier biblical narratives, such as the account of Ehud, a Benjaminite judge who delivered Israel from Moabite oppression (Judges 3:15-30), and the account of the Benjaminites' role in the civil conflict described in Judges 20.

During Asa's reign, the tribe's military strength was not only a matter of numbers but also of skill and valor. The Benjaminites' proficiency with the bow and their ability to maneuver with small shields made them a versatile and formidable force. This capability was essential in Asa's efforts to fortify Judah and maintain its sovereignty amidst regional tensions.

The census of the Tribe of Benjamin during Asa's reign serves as a testament to their enduring legacy as a warrior tribe within the nation of Israel. Their contribution to Asa's army reflects their ongoing commitment to the defense and stability of the kingdom of Judah.

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2 Chronicles 14:8
And Asa had an army of men that bore targets and spears, out of Judah three hundred thousand; and out of Benjamin, that bore shields and drew bows, two hundred and fourscore thousand: all these were mighty men of valor.
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The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ...
... son of a Jewish mother, of the tribe of Dan ... Jud??a, says that the tribes of Juda,
Benjamin, and Levi ... the twenty-eighth year, when first the census was ordered ...
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