Topical Encyclopedia Uzziel is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. He is identified as one of the sons of Bela, who was the firstborn son of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The name Uzziel means "God is my strength," reflecting a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize reliance on divine power.Biblical References: Uzziel is specifically mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:7, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Benjamin. The verse states: "The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri—five in all. They were heads of their families, mighty warriors, and their genealogies were recorded. The number of them was 22,034." (1 Chronicles 7:7) This passage highlights Uzziel as one of the prominent figures within the tribe of Benjamin, emphasizing his role as a head of a family and a mighty warrior. The genealogical record underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the Israelite community, with Uzziel being part of a significant family line. Tribal Context: The tribe of Benjamin held a unique position among the tribes of Israel. As the smallest tribe, it was known for its fierce warriors and played a crucial role in the history of Israel. The tribe's territory was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, which often placed it at the center of political and military events. Uzziel, as a descendant of Bela, would have been part of this dynamic tribal landscape. The Benjaminites were known for their valor and skill in battle, traits that are attributed to Uzziel and his brothers in the biblical text. The mention of their genealogies being recorded suggests a well-documented lineage, which was important for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights. Historical and Theological Significance: While Uzziel himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records serves several purposes. It reinforces the continuity of the Israelite tribes and their ancestral promises. The genealogies in Chronicles often highlight the fulfillment of God's covenant with the patriarchs, demonstrating His faithfulness to His people through successive generations. Moreover, the mention of Uzziel and his brothers as "mighty warriors" reflects the broader biblical theme of God empowering His people to achieve victory and maintain their inheritance. This theme is consistent with the understanding of God as a source of strength and deliverance for Israel, a concept encapsulated in Uzziel's very name. In summary, Uzziel, the son of Bela, represents a link in the chain of Israel's history, embodying the strength and resilience of the tribe of Benjamin. His mention in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Israelite tribes and their reliance on God's strength throughout their history. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 7:7And the sons of Bela; Ezbon, and Uzzi, and Uzziel, and Jerimoth, and Iri, five; heads of the house of their fathers, mighty men of valor; and were reckoned by their genealogies twenty and two thousand and thirty and four. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Amminadab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Heman the Ezrahite in the Psalms? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |