Bible Study: Benjamin, Son of Jacob and Tribe
This study explores the life of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob, and the characteristics and history of the tribe that descended from him. We will examine key passages in the Old Testament that highlight Benjamin's significance in the biblical narrative.
Benjamin's Birth and Early Life
• Genesis 35:16-18: Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife, experiences a difficult labor during Benjamin's birth. She names him Ben-Oni ("son of my sorrow"), but Jacob renames him Benjamin ("son of my right hand"). This name change signifies a transition from sorrow to blessing.
• Benjamin was the only full brother of Joseph, both sons of Rachel, which created a special bond and favoritism from their father, Jacob.
Benjamin in the Story of Joseph
• Genesis 42:36: Jacob expresses his deep love and concern for Benjamin when his other sons return from Egypt without Joseph and Simeon. He fears losing Benjamin as well.
• Genesis 43:34: When the brothers return to Egypt, Joseph, though initially unrecognized, shows special favor to Benjamin during a meal. This act of grace hints at the reconciliation to come.
• Genesis 45:14: Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and embraces Benjamin, highlighting their close relationship.
• Genesis 45:22: Joseph gives Benjamin five times more than his brothers, emphasizing his favored status.
• Genesis 46:21: Benjamin's descendants are listed as part of Jacob's family who migrated to Egypt.
Jacob's Prophecy about Benjamin
• Genesis 49:27: In his final blessing, Jacob describes Benjamin as "a ravenous wolf, in the morning devouring the prey, and at evening dividing the spoil." This prophecy suggests a tribe characterized by strength, military prowess, and a tendency towards both aggression and success.
The Tribe of Benjamin
Early History and Territory
• Numbers 1:11, 36; 2:22; 10:24: The tribe of Benjamin is listed in the census and tribal arrangements during the Exodus.
• Numbers 13:9: Benjamin is represented by a leader in the delegation sent to spy out the land of Canaan.
• Numbers 26:38: A later census lists the tribe of Benjamin.
• Numbers 34:21: Benjamin's tribal boundary is defined.
• Joshua 18:11, 20: The territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin is described, located between Judah and Ephraim, including the city of Jerusalem.
• Joshua 21:4: Cities from the tribe of Benjamin were given to the Kohathite Levites.
Key Events and Characteristics
• Judges 19-21: A tragic event involving the men of Gibeah in Benjamin leads to a civil war with the other tribes of Israel. This event illustrates the tribe's capacity for violence and the consequences of their actions. The tribe of Benjamin was nearly wiped out.
• Judges 3:15-30: Ehud, a left-handed Benjamite, is a judge who delivers Israel from the Moabites. This highlights the tribe's potential for leadership and military skill.
• 1 Samuel 9:1; 2 Samuel 23:29; 1 Chronicles 8: The first king of Israel, Saul, was from the tribe of Benjamin.
Later Mentions
• 1 Chronicles 7:6; 8:1, 40; 9:3, 7; 12:29; 27:12: Genealogies and military roles of the Benjamites are recorded.
• Nehemiah 11:7, 31: Benjamites are listed among those who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
• Psalm 68:27: Benjamin is mentioned in a poetic context, possibly referring to their role in worship or leadership.
• Ezekiel 48:22, 32: Benjamin's place in the future division of the land is described.
• Acts 13:21: Saul's lineage from the tribe of Benjamin is mentioned in a historical context.
• Romans 11:1; Philippians 3:5: The Apostle Paul identifies himself as a Benjamite, highlighting his proud heritage.
• Revelation 7:8: Benjamin is listed among the twelve tribes of Israel in the context of the end times.
- Bible Study: Beersheba in the Bible
- Bible Study: Bethany in the Bible
- Bible Study: Bethel in the Bible
Key Themes and Significance
• Favoritism and Protection: Benjamin was deeply loved and protected by his father, Jacob. This highlights themes of familial love and the importance of protecting the vulnerable.
• Strength and Aggression: Jacob's prophecy and the events in Judges reveal the tribe's potential for both strength and violence. This serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the need for self-control.
• Loyalty: The tribe of Benjamin was closely allied with the tribe of Judah, and this alliance was important in the history of Israel.
• God's Sovereignty: Despite the tribe's failures, God still used them in His plan, demonstrating His sovereignty and ability to work through flawed people.
• Diversity of God's People: The story of Benjamin and his tribe contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the diversity of personalities, strengths, and weaknesses within God's chosen people.
