The Tribe of Naphtali, 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). As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, the tribe of Naphtali was noted for its strength and valor, playing a significant role in the conquest and settlement of Canaan.

Inheritance and Territory

Upon entering Canaan, the land was divided among the tribes by lot, as commanded by God through Moses and later executed by Joshua. The territory allotted to Naphtali was located in the northern part of the land, encompassing a fertile and strategically significant region. This area included the western shores of the Sea of Galilee and extended into the mountainous regions, providing both agricultural abundance and natural defenses.

Military Prowess

The men of Naphtali were renowned for their bravery and skill in battle. In the Song of Deborah, a victory hymn found in Judges 5, the tribe of Naphtali is commended for its contribution to the defeat of the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. Judges 5:18 states, "Zebulun was a people who risked their lives; Naphtali, too, on the heights of the battlefield." This passage highlights the tribe's willingness to engage in perilous combat and their significant role in securing Israelite victories.

Strategic Importance

The geographical location of Naphtali's inheritance made it a crucial area for trade and defense. The fertile lands and access to the Sea of Galilee provided economic opportunities, while the mountainous terrain offered protection against potential invaders. This strategic positioning allowed the tribe to thrive and maintain its strength in the region.

Blessing and Prophecy

Jacob's blessing over Naphtali, recorded in Genesis 49:21 , describes the tribe as agile and free: "Naphtali is a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns." This imagery suggests a tribe characterized by swiftness and grace, qualities that would serve them well in both peace and war. Additionally, Moses' blessing in Deuteronomy 33:23 emphasizes Naphtali's favor and abundance: "About Naphtali he said: 'Naphtali is abounding with favor of the LORD and full of His blessing; he will inherit southward to the lake.'"

Role in Israel's History

Throughout Israel's history, the tribe of Naphtali continued to demonstrate its strength and resilience. During the period of the Judges, they were instrumental in various military campaigns, and in the time of the monarchy, they remained a vital part of the northern kingdom. Despite facing challenges, including Assyrian invasions, the legacy of Naphtali's strength and courage endured.

In summary, the Tribe of Naphtali, upon entering Canaan, was marked by its strategic territory, military prowess, and the blessings of both Jacob and Moses. Their role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land underscores their importance in the history of Israel.Numbers 26:50
These are the families of Naphtali according to their families: and they that were numbered of them were forty and five thousand and four hundred.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... local chiefs, heroes to their own immediate tribe, well known ... their lives unto the
death,"and Naphtali upon the ... O my soul, march on with strength."Then did ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... came in time to form a tribe by themselves ... It was essential, therefore, before entering
on the struggle ... useless angles which might detract from its strength. ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

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