Topical Encyclopedia Ben-dekar is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings. He is one of the twelve officials appointed by King Solomon to oversee the provision of supplies for the king's household. Each official was responsible for one month of the year, ensuring that the needs of the royal court were met efficiently and consistently.Biblical Reference: Ben-dekar is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:9: "Ben-dekar in Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan." Role and Responsibilities: As one of Solomon's twelve district governors, Ben-dekar's role was crucial in maintaining the prosperity and stability of Solomon's reign. His jurisdiction included the regions of Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan. These areas were part of the larger administrative division of the kingdom, which Solomon organized to ensure effective governance and resource management. The appointment of officials like Ben-dekar reflects Solomon's wisdom in administration, as he sought to create a structured and efficient system to support the kingdom's needs. Each governor was responsible for collecting provisions and taxes from their respective regions, which were then used to sustain the royal household and support the kingdom's infrastructure. Historical and Geographical Context: The regions under Ben-dekar's oversight were significant in the ancient Near East. Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan were strategically located, contributing to the economic and military strength of Israel. Beth-shemesh, for instance, was an important city in the Shephelah, a region known for its fertile land and agricultural productivity. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the appointment of officials like Ben-dekar underscores the biblical theme of order and governance under God's chosen leaders. Solomon's administrative system reflects the divine wisdom granted to him, as described in 1 Kings 3:12: "Behold, I have done according to your words. Behold, I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall one like you arise after you." Ben-dekar's role, though briefly mentioned, is part of the larger narrative of Solomon's reign, which is characterized by peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. His service exemplifies the importance of faithful stewardship and the effective management of resources in accordance with divine principles. Conclusion: While Ben-dekar is a minor figure in the biblical text, his contribution to the administration of Solomon's kingdom highlights the importance of organized leadership and the distribution of responsibilities. His mention in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the intricate and well-ordered system that supported one of Israel's most prosperous periods. Concordance Ben-dekar (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 4:9 Thesaurus Ben-dekar (1 Occurrence)Ben-dekar. Bended, Ben-dekar. Bendeker . Multi-Version Concordance Ben-dekar (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 Ben-Dekar in ... /b/ben-dekar.htm - 6k Bended (2 Occurrences) Bendeker Resources Who was Ben-Hadad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs Ben-Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the God of the hills and valleys (1 Kings 20:28)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |