Introduction:
Ben-hur is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King Solomon's reign. His role is relatively minor, yet he is part of the administrative structure that supported the prosperity and organization of Solomon's kingdom. The name "Ben-hur" means "son of Hur," indicating a patronymic lineage.

Biblical Reference:
Ben-hur is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:8, which details the officials appointed by King Solomon to oversee various regions of Israel. The Berean Standard Bible states: "These were their names: Ben-hur, in the hill country of Ephraim." This passage is part of a larger section that lists the twelve district governors who were responsible for providing provisions for the king and his household, each for one month of the year.

Role and Responsibilities:
As one of Solomon's twelve district governors, Ben-hur was tasked with the administration of the hill country of Ephraim. This region was known for its fertile land and strategic location, making it a significant area for agricultural production and trade. Ben-hur's responsibilities would have included collecting taxes, overseeing agricultural activities, and ensuring the smooth operation of the district's affairs to support the king's court.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The appointment of district governors like Ben-hur reflects the administrative sophistication of Solomon's reign. Solomon's kingdom was marked by peace, prosperity, and extensive building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. The efficient management of resources and territories was crucial to maintaining the stability and wealth of the kingdom.

The hill country of Ephraim, where Ben-hur served, was a central part of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. It was known for its rugged terrain and significant historical and religious sites. The region's importance is underscored by its frequent mention in biblical narratives, often associated with the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh.

Theological Significance:
While Ben-hur himself is not a prominent figure in biblical theology, his role as a district governor under Solomon highlights the broader theme of divine wisdom and order. Solomon's ability to organize and govern such a vast and diverse kingdom is often attributed to the wisdom granted to him by God. This administrative structure, including officials like Ben-hur, exemplifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Solomon for a wise and discerning heart (1 Kings 3:12).

Conclusion:
Ben-hur's mention in the Bible, though brief, provides insight into the governance and organization of Israel during Solomon's reign. His role as a district governor underscores the importance of effective leadership and administration in achieving the prosperity and stability of the kingdom. Through figures like Ben-hur, the biblical narrative illustrates the practical outworking of divine wisdom in the governance of God's chosen people.BEN-HUR

ben-hur' (ben-chur, "son of Hur"; the King James Version son of Hur; from a Hebrew root meaning "to be white." Compare HPN, 69, note 3): One of the twelve commissariat officers in the service of Solomon (1 Kings 4:8).

1133. Ben-chur -- "son of Hur," one of Solomon's leaders
... 1132, 1133. Ben-chur. 1134 . "son of Hur," one of Solomon's leaders.
Transliteration: Ben-chur Phonetic Spelling: (ben-khoor') Short Definition: Ben- ...
/hebrew/1133.htm - 6k

The Value of Life
... The community quarantined the lepers in waste places by stoning them when they crossed
bounds. (Remember Ben Hur's mother and sister.) Jesus not only healed ...
/.../rauschenbusch/the social principles of jesus/chapter i the value of.htm

Benhur
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-HUR. ben-hur' (ben-chur, "son of Hur";
the King James Version son of Hur; from a Hebrew root ...
/b/benhur.htm - 6k

Ben-hur (1 Occurrence)
Ben-hur. Benhur, Ben-hur. Ben-hushai . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BEN-HUR. ... Benhur, Ben-hur. Ben-hushai . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-hur.htm - 7k

Ben-hinnom (7 Occurrences)
Ben-hinnom. Ben-hesed, Ben-hinnom. Benhur . Multi-Version Concordance Ben-hinnom
(7 Occurrences). ... (See NAS). Ben-hesed, Ben-hinnom. Benhur . Reference
/b/ben-hinnom.htm - 8k

Ben-hushai (1 Occurrence)
Ben-hushai. Ben-hur, Ben-hushai. Beniah . Multi-Version Concordance Ben-hushai
(1 Occurrence). ... (YLT). Ben-hur, Ben-hushai. Beniah . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-hushai.htm - 6k

Ben (40 Occurrences)
... Rogel. (See NAS NIV). 1 Kings 4:8 These are their names: BenHur, in the
hill country of Ephraim; (WEB ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 ...
/b/ben.htm - 20k

Ben-
... singular or plural to express relationship of almost any kind: (1) to a person;
as such it is found as part of many compound names like Benjamin, Benhur, etc. ...
/b/ben-.htm - 7k

Hur (17 Occurrences)
... Here the Revised Version (British and American) has "Ben-hur," taking the Hebrew
ben, "son of," as part of the proper name; and the same is true in reference ...
/h/hur.htm - 14k

E'phraim (146 Occurrences)
... over the wall." (See RSV). 1 Kings 4:8 These are their names: BenHur, in
the hill country of Ephraim; (See RSV). 1 Kings 12:25 Then ...
/e/e'phraim.htm - 35k

Ephraim (168 Occurrences)
... NIV). 1 Kings 4:8 These are their names: BenHur, in the hill country of
Ephraim; (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Kings ...
/e/ephraim.htm - 56k

Is Ben-Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org

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