Topical Encyclopedia
The Tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. The tribe is named after Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The census of reallotment, as recorded in the Book of Numbers, provides insight into the size and strength of the tribe during the Israelites' wilderness journey and their preparation to enter the Promised Land.
Census in the WildernessThe first census of the Israelites, as commanded by God to Moses, is detailed in
Numbers 1. This census was conducted in the second year after the Exodus from Egypt. The tribe of Benjamin, under the leadership of Abidan son of Gideoni, was counted among the other tribes. According to
Numbers 1:36-37 , "From the sons of Benjamin, their genealogies according to their clans and families, the number of names counted one by one, every male twenty years of age or older, everyone who could serve in the army, those registered to the tribe of Benjamin numbered 35,400."
Census of ReallotmentThe second census, often referred to as the census of reallotment, is recorded in
Numbers 26. This census was taken in the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho, as the Israelites prepared to enter Canaan. The purpose of this census was to determine the military strength of each tribe and to facilitate the division of the land among them.
Numbers 26:41 states, "These were the clans of Benjamin, and their registration numbered 45,600."
The increase in numbers from the first to the second census indicates a growth in the tribe's population, despite the challenges faced during the wilderness period. This growth is significant as it reflects the tribe's resilience and God's providence in preserving His people.
Inheritance and TerritoryThe tribe of Benjamin was allotted a portion of land in the central region of Canaan, as described in
Joshua 18. This territory was strategically located between the tribes of Judah to the south and Ephraim to the north. The land included key cities such as Jericho, Bethel, and Gibeon, which played important roles in Israel's history.
Significance in Israel's HistoryThe tribe of Benjamin is notable for producing several significant biblical figures, including King Saul, Israel's first king, and the Apostle Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus. The tribe's location and its members' contributions to Israel's history underscore its importance within the nation of Israel.
The census of reallotment serves as a testament to the tribe's enduring legacy and God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Through the trials of the wilderness and the anticipation of entering the Promised Land, the tribe of Benjamin remained a vital part of the Israelite community.
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Ezekiel 48:23As for the rest of the tribes, from the east side to the west side, Benjamin shall have a portion.
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Resources
Who was Benjamin in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Benjamin? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the story of the Levite and his concubine? | GotQuestions.orgBenjamin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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