Topical Encyclopedia The Tribe of Naphtali is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant (Genesis 30:7-8). The tribe's inheritance was located in the northern region of Canaan, a fertile area that included the western shores of the Sea of Galilee. This territory was known for its natural beauty and strategic importance.Role in the Time of the Judges During the period of the Judges, the Tribe of Naphtali played a significant role in the military campaigns against the oppressive forces that threatened Israel. One of the most notable events involving Naphtali is their participation in the battle led by Gideon against the Midianites. Gideon, from the Tribe of Manasseh, was called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianite oppression. In Judges 6:35, it is recorded that Gideon sent messengers throughout Manasseh, and also to Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali, summoning them to join him in the fight against the Midianites: "And he sent messengers throughout Manasseh, calling them to arms, and also into Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali, so that they came up to meet them" (Judges 6:35). The response of Naphtali to Gideon's call demonstrates their willingness to unite with other tribes in defense of their land and people. This unity was crucial for the success of Gideon's campaign, which culminated in a miraculous victory over the Midianites with a significantly smaller force, as described in Judges 7. Military Prowess and Leadership The men of Naphtali were known for their valor and skill in battle. In the Song of Deborah, which celebrates the victory over the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera, the bravery of Naphtali is highlighted: "Zebulun was a people who risked their lives; Naphtali, too, on the heights of the battlefield" (Judges 5:18). This passage underscores the tribe's reputation for courage and their significant contribution to Israel's military efforts. Legacy and Influence The Tribe of Naphtali's involvement in the battles during the time of the Judges reflects their commitment to the covenant community of Israel and their role in the divine plan for the nation. Their willingness to follow leaders like Gideon and participate in critical battles illustrates their dedication to the preservation and prosperity of Israel. Throughout biblical history, the Tribe of Naphtali is remembered for their strategic importance and their contributions to the collective efforts of the tribes of Israel. Their legacy is one of courage, unity, and faithfulness to God's calling, as demonstrated in their support of Gideon and other leaders during times of national crisis. Nave's Topical Index Judges 6:35And he sent messengers throughout all Manasseh; who also was gathered after him: and he sent messengers to Asher, and to Zebulun, and to Naphtali; and they came up to meet them. Nave's Topical Index Judges 7:23 Library The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who was Naphtali in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Naphtali: Son of Jacob and Bilhah Naphtali: Son of Jacob and Bilhah: Jacob Blesses Naphtali: Son of Jacob and Bilhah: Sons of the Tribe of Naphtali: Bounds of Their Inheritance the Tribe of Naphtali: Chosen from Zebulun to Go With Barak Against Sisera the Tribe of Naphtali: Descended from Jacob's Sixth Son the Tribe of Naphtali: did not Drive out the Canaanites, But Made Them Tributary the Tribe of Naphtali: Encamped Under the Standard of Dan North of the Tabernacle the Tribe of Naphtali: Families of the Tribe of Naphtali: Joined Gideon in the Pursuit and Overthrow of the Midianites the Tribe of Naphtali: Land of, Purged of Idols by Josiah the Tribe of Naphtali: Land of, Ravaged by Benhadad the Tribe of Naphtali: Offering of, at the Dedication the Tribe of Naphtali: Officer Placed Over, by David the Tribe of Naphtali: Officer Placed Over, by Solomon the Tribe of Naphtali: On Ebal Said Amen to the Curses the Tribe of Naphtali: Persons Selected From: To Divide the Land the Tribe of Naphtali: Persons Selected From: To Number the People the Tribe of Naphtali: Persons Selected From: To Spy out the Land the Tribe of Naphtali: Praised for Aiding Against Sisera the Tribe of Naphtali: Predictions Respecting the Tribe of Naphtali: Remarkable Persons of Barak the Tribe of Naphtali: Remarkable Persons of Hiram the Tribe of Naphtali: some of, at David's Coronation the Tribe of Naphtali: Specially Favoured by Our Lord's Ministry the Tribe of Naphtali: Strength of, on Entering Canaan the Tribe of Naphtali: Strength of, on Leaving Egypt the Tribe of Naphtali: Taken Captive by Tiglathpileser the Tribe of Naphtali: The Rear of the Fourth Division of Israel in Their Journeys Tribe of Naphtali: Defeat Sisera Tribe of Naphtali: Follow Gideon Tribe of Naphtali: Help in Conveying the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem Tribe of Naphtali: Inheritance of Tribe of Naphtali: Military Operations of Tribe of Naphtali: Moses' Benediction On Tribe of Naphtali: Position Assigned To, in Camping and in Marching Tribe of Naphtali: Prophecies Concerning Related Terms |
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