The term "Ashbelite" refers to the descendants or members of the family of Ashbel, who was one of the sons of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. Ashbel is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel, specifically within the tribe of Benjamin. The Ashbelites, therefore, are part of the Benjamite lineage, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Ashbel is found in the Book of Genesis, where the sons of Benjamin are listed. Genesis 46:21 states: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard." This passage highlights Ashbel as one of the ten sons of Benjamin who went down to Egypt with Jacob's family during the time of famine.

Further genealogical details are provided in the Book of Numbers, which records the census of the Israelites in the wilderness. Numbers 26:38-39 mentions the descendants of Benjamin, including Ashbel: "The descendants of Benjamin by their clans were: the Belaite clan from Bela, the Ashbelite clan from Ashbel, the Ahiramite clan from Ahiram, the Shuphamite clan from Shupham, and the Huphamite clan from Hupham."

Historical and Cultural Context:

The tribe of Benjamin held a significant position among the tribes of Israel. Despite being the smallest tribe, it played a crucial role in Israel's history. The Benjamites were known for their valor and skill in battle, as seen in various biblical accounts. The Ashbelites, as part of this tribe, would have shared in the heritage and responsibilities of the Benjamites.

The tribe of Benjamin was allocated a portion of land in the central region of Canaan, which included the city of Jerusalem. This strategic location contributed to the tribe's influence and involvement in the political and religious life of Israel. The Ashbelites, along with other Benjamite clans, would have participated in the tribal and national affairs of Israel.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Ashbel and his descendants in the biblical genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage and heritage in the narrative of God's chosen people. The genealogies serve to connect the Israelites to the patriarchs and to God's covenant promises. The Ashbelites, as part of the tribe of Benjamin, are linked to the broader account of redemption and God's faithfulness to His people.

The tribe of Benjamin also holds messianic significance, as it is the tribe of King Saul, Israel's first king, and the Apostle Paul, a key figure in the New Testament. The Ashbelites, as part of this tribe, share in the legacy of these notable biblical figures.

In summary, the Ashbelites represent a branch of the Benjamite family tree, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. Their mention in the genealogical records highlights the continuity of God's covenant and the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel.ASHBEL; ASHBELITE

ash'-bel, ash'-bel-it ('ashbel): The gentilic name "Ashbelite" is found in Numbers 26:38, second son of Benjamin (Genesis 46:21). In 1 Chronicles 7:6-11 (6) "Jediael" ("known to God") is substituted for the heathen-sounding "Ashbel" ("Ishbaal," "man of Baal"). The chronicler, in this case, conforms literally to the principle laid down in Hosea 2:17; the title "Baal" ("lord") was applied in early days (e.g. in the days of Saul) to the national God of Israel, but in later days the prophets objected to it because it was freely applied to heathen gods (compare ISH-BOSHETH). In 1 Chronicles 8:1 the three names Bela, Ashbel, Aharah (= Ahiram) are taken from Numbers 26:38, however, without change.

H. J. Wolf

789. Ashbeli -- descendant of Ashbel
... Ashbelites. Patronymic from 'Ashbel; an Ashbelite (collectively) or descendant of
Ashbel -- Ashbelites. see HEBREW 'Ashbel. 788, 789. Ashbeli. 790 . ...
/hebrew/789.htm - 6kAshbelite (1 Occurrence)
... ASHBEL; ASHBELITE. ash'-bel, ash'-bel-it ('ashbel): The gentilic name "Ashbelite"
is found in Numbers 26:38, second son of Benjamin (Genesis 46:21). ...
/a/ashbelite.htm - 7k

Ashbel (3 Occurrences)
... ASHBEL; ASHBELITE. ash'-bel, ash'-bel-it ('ashbel): The gentilic name "Ashbelite"
is found in Numbers 26:38, second son of Benjamin (Genesis 46:21). ...
/a/ashbel.htm - 8k

Ashbelites (1 Occurrence)

/a/ashbelites.htm - 6k

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