1 Chronicles 5:6

and Beerah his son, whom Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria carried into exile. Beerah was a leader of the Reubenites.

Study Bible

and Beerah his son
Beerah is identified as a descendant of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. The Reubenites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and Beerah's mention highlights the continuity of tribal leadership. The name "Beerah" means "well" or "fountain," which may symbolize a source of life or sustenance, reflecting the role of leaders in providing guidance and support to their people.

whom Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria carried into exile
Tiglath-pileser III was a prominent Assyrian king who reigned from 745 to 727 BC. His military campaigns expanded the Assyrian Empire significantly, and he is known for his policy of deporting conquered peoples to prevent rebellion. The exile of Beerah signifies the beginning of the Assyrian captivity of the northern tribes of Israel, a pivotal event in biblical history. This deportation fulfilled prophecies about the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God, as seen in passages like 2 Kings 15:29 and 1 Chronicles 5:26. The exile serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

Beerah was a leader of the Reubenites
As a leader of the Reubenites, Beerah held a position of authority and responsibility within his tribe. The Reubenites, though initially granted land east of the Jordan River, often found themselves vulnerable to external threats due to their geographical location. Leadership in this context required not only governance but also the defense of the tribe's interests. The mention of Beerah underscores the impact of Assyrian expansion on the tribal structure of Israel, as leaders like him were removed from their positions, leading to a loss of autonomy and identity for the tribes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Beerah
A leader of the Reubenites, one of the tribes of Israel. His name means "well" or "fountain" in Hebrew, indicating a source or origin.

2. Tiglath-pileser
The king of Assyria who reigned during the 8th century BC. Known for his military campaigns and expansion of the Assyrian Empire, he played a significant role in the exile of the northern tribes of Israel.

3. Reubenites
Descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob. They settled on the east side of the Jordan River and were known for their pastoral lifestyle.

4. Exile
The forced removal of the Reubenites from their land by the Assyrian Empire, a significant event in Israel's history that fulfilled prophetic warnings about disobedience to God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The exile of the Reubenites serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of turning away from God's commands. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and obedience in our relationship with God.

God's Sovereignty in History
The events surrounding Beerah and the Reubenites illustrate God's control over nations and history. Even in times of judgment, God's purposes are being fulfilled.

Leadership and Responsibility
As a leader, Beerah's fate was tied to the actions and spiritual state of his people. This highlights the responsibility leaders have to guide their communities in righteousness.

Hope in Exile
While exile represents judgment, it also sets the stage for eventual restoration and redemption. This can encourage believers to trust in God's promises even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Beerah and the Reubenites illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God? Can you identify areas in your life where you need to align more closely with God's commands?

2. In what ways does the exile of the Reubenites reflect the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28? How can these warnings serve as a guide for us today?

3. How does understanding the historical context of Tiglath-pileser's reign enhance our comprehension of 1 Chronicles 5:6? What does this teach us about God's sovereignty?

4. What responsibilities do leaders have in guiding their communities according to biblical principles? How can you apply this in your own sphere of influence?

5. How can the theme of hope and restoration in the midst of judgment be applied to current challenges you are facing? What scriptures can you turn to for encouragement?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15-17
These chapters provide a broader context of the Assyrian invasions and the eventual fall of the northern kingdom of Israel, including the exile of various tribes.

Genesis 49:3-4
Jacob's blessing to Reuben, which foreshadows the instability and loss of preeminence that his descendants would experience.

Deuteronomy 28:36-37
A warning to Israel about the consequences of disobedience, including being taken into exile by a foreign nation.