Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Benejaakan" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "sons of Jaakan." The term "Jaakan" itself is believed to be a personal name, possibly indicating a tribal or familial leader. The prefix "Bene" means "sons of," suggesting a lineage or descendants associated with Jaakan. Biblical References: Benejaakan is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. The primary reference to Benejaakan is found in the book of Numbers: · Numbers 33:31-32 : "They set out from Moseroth and camped at Benejaakan. They set out from Benejaakan and camped at Hor Haggidgad." This passage is part of a detailed itinerary of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, listing the various stages and encampments along the way. Historical and Geographical Context: Benejaakan is identified as one of the stations where the Israelites camped during their 40-year journey through the wilderness. The exact location of Benejaakan is not definitively known, but it is generally considered to be in the region of the Sinai Peninsula or the northern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The mention of Benejaakan in the wilderness itinerary suggests it was a notable landmark or settlement during the time of the Exodus. Related Biblical Passages: The journey of the Israelites, including their encampment at Benejaakan, is also referenced in Deuteronomy, although the name is not explicitly mentioned: · Deuteronomy 10:6 : "The Israelites traveled from Beeroth Bene-jaakan to Moserah. There Aaron died and was buried, and Eleazar his son succeeded him as priest." This passage provides additional context to the journey, noting the death of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and the succession of his son Eleazar as high priest. The mention of Beeroth Bene-jaakan suggests a connection or proximity to Benejaakan, indicating a broader region or area associated with the descendants of Jaakan. Theological Significance: The mention of Benejaakan, like other stations in the wilderness journey, serves to underscore the faithfulness of God in guiding and sustaining the Israelites through their long and arduous journey. Each encampment represents a step in the fulfillment of God's promise to bring His people to the land He had sworn to their ancestors. The detailed record of these stations in Numbers 33 highlights the historical reality of the Exodus and the divine providence experienced by the Israelites. Cultural and Historical Insights: The reference to Benejaakan, along with other locations in the wilderness itinerary, provides valuable insights into the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during the Exodus. It reflects the challenges faced by a large community traveling through harsh and unfamiliar terrain, reliant on God's provision and guidance. The mention of specific locations like Benejaakan also aids in understanding the broader geographical and cultural context of the ancient Near East during this period. Conclusion: While Benejaakan is a relatively minor reference in the biblical narrative, its inclusion in the wilderness itinerary serves as a testament to the historical journey of the Israelites and the fulfillment of God's promises. The name itself, meaning "sons of Jaakan," hints at the tribal and familial structures that were significant in the ancient world, providing a glimpse into the social dynamics of the time. Smith's Bible Dictionary Benejaakan(sons of Jaakan), a tribe who gave their name to certain wells in the desert which formed one of the halting-places of the Israelites on their journey to Canaan. [BEEROTH OF THE CHILDREN OF JAAKAN BENE-JAAKAN] Also given in (Genesis 36:27) as AKAN. Easton's Bible Dictionary Children of Jaakan (Numbers 33:31, 32), the same as Beeroth. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEEROTH BENE-JAAKANben'-e-ja'-a-kan (be'eroth bene ya`aqan; the Revised Version, margin "the wells of the children of Jaakan"): A desert camp of the Israelites mentioned before Moserah (Deuteronomy 10:6). In Numbers 33:31, 32 the name is given simply "Bene-jaakan," and the situation after Moseroth. BENE-JAAKAN ben-e-ja'-a-kan, be-ne-ja'-a-kan (bene ya`aqan: Numbers 33:31, 32). Thesaurus Benejaakan (2 Occurrences)... See BEEROTH BENE-JAAKAN. Multi-Version Concordance Benejaakan (2 Occurrences). Numbers 33:31 And they departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Benejaakan. (KJV). ... /b/benejaakan.htm - 7k Beeroth-benejaakan (1 Occurrence) Be-er'oth (8 Occurrences) Jaakanites (1 Occurrence) Mose'rah (1 Occurrence) Beeroth-bene-jaakan (1 Occurrence) Bene-ja'akan (3 Occurrences) Bene-jaakan (3 Occurrences) Bene-hashem (1 Occurrence) Horhagidgad (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Benejaakan (2 Occurrences)Numbers 33:31 Numbers 33:32 Subtopics Related Terms Beeroth-benejaakan (1 Occurrence) Beeroth-bene-jaakan (1 Occurrence) |