Topical Encyclopedia
The Tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, played a significant role in the history of the Israelites, particularly during the period of the Judges. The tribe is descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. Known for their valor and skill in battle, the Benjamites were often at the forefront of Israel's military endeavors.
Historical ContextDuring the time of the Judges, Israel was a loose confederation of tribes without a centralized government. This period was marked by cycles of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The narrative of the Tribe of Benjamin assisting against Sisera is set within this tumultuous era.
The Battle Against SiseraThe account of the battle against Sisera is found in
Judges 4 and 5. Sisera was the commander of the Canaanite army under King Jabin of Hazor. He oppressed the Israelites with his formidable force, which included 900 iron chariots. In response to this oppression, God raised up Deborah, a prophetess and judge, to lead Israel.
Deborah summoned Barak, the son of Abinoam, from the tribe of Naphtali, to lead an army against Sisera. Barak agreed to go only if Deborah accompanied him, to which she consented. The tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali were primarily called to arms, but other tribes, including Benjamin, also participated in the battle.
Role of the Tribe of BenjaminWhile the biblical text does not explicitly mention the Tribe of Benjamin in the list of tribes that responded to Deborah's call, the Song of Deborah in
Judges 5 provides a poetic account of the battle and the tribes involved.
Judges 5:14 states, "From Ephraim their root is in Amalek; following you, Benjamin, with your peoples." This verse suggests that the Benjamites were among those who rallied to the cause, demonstrating their willingness to fight against the oppressors of Israel.
The participation of Benjamin in this battle is consistent with their reputation as fierce warriors. Their involvement would have been crucial in the defeat of Sisera, as the combined forces of the Israelite tribes, under divine guidance, routed the Canaanite army. Sisera himself was killed by Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, fulfilling Deborah's prophecy that the honor of victory would not go to Barak but to a woman.
SignificanceThe involvement of the Tribe of Benjamin in the battle against Sisera highlights their role in the collective efforts of the Israelite tribes to secure freedom from oppression. It underscores the unity and cooperation among the tribes during times of crisis, despite the frequent inter-tribal conflicts that characterized much of Israel's history.
The victory over Sisera was a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, as it marked the end of Canaanite dominance in the region and ushered in a period of peace. The participation of Benjamin in this victory is a testament to their enduring legacy as a tribe committed to the defense and preservation of the nation of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Judges 5:14Out of Ephraim was there a root of them against Amalek; after you, Benjamin, among your people; out of Machir came down governors, and out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the writer.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
Who was Joseph in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the twelve tribes of Israel? | GotQuestions.orgBenjamin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
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