Topical Encyclopedia
The Tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in the history of Israel, being one of the twelve tribes descended from Jacob's sons. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his descendants played a crucial role in the unfolding narrative of the Israelite people. The tribe's territory was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, which often placed Benjamin in a pivotal position in the political and military affairs of the nation.
At the time of David's coronation, the Tribe of Benjamin was particularly noteworthy due to its historical association with King Saul, Israel's first king, who was a Benjamite. This connection to Saul initially created a complex dynamic, as the transition of power from Saul's house to David's reign was marked by tension and conflict. Despite this, many from the Tribe of Benjamin recognized David's anointed kingship and pledged their allegiance to him.
In
1 Chronicles 12, we find a detailed account of the warriors who joined David at Hebron to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, as the LORD had said. Among these were men from the Tribe of Benjamin. The text highlights their skill and valor, emphasizing their readiness to support David despite their tribal ties to Saul. The Berean Standard Bible records:
"Some of the Benjamites and Judahites came to David at the stronghold. David went out to meet them and said, 'If you have come to me in peace to help me, my heart will be united with you; but if you have come to betray me to my enemies, though my hands are free from violence, may the God of our fathers see it and judge you.' Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he said: 'We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.' So David received them and made them leaders of his troops." (
1 Chronicles 12:16-18)
This passage illustrates the loyalty and commitment of the Benjamites who chose to support David, acknowledging the divine mandate upon his leadership. Their decision to align with David was a testament to their recognition of God's will and the future He had ordained for Israel under David's rule.
The involvement of the Tribe of Benjamin in David's coronation is a reflection of the broader theme of unity and reconciliation within the nation of Israel. Despite previous allegiances and the potential for division, the Benjamites' support of David signified a willingness to embrace God's chosen leader and work towards the establishment of a united kingdom. This act of allegiance was instrumental in solidifying David's reign and setting the stage for the prosperity and expansion of Israel under his leadership.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Chronicles 12:29And of the children of Benjamin, the kindred of Saul, three thousand: for till now the greatest part of them had kept the ward of the house of Saul.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Levi,** or they were merged at an early date into some fellow-tribe, as in ... of Reuben
with Gad;*** others, such as Ephraim, Manasseh, Benjamin, and Judah ...
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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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