Benhail is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reforms of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. His name, which can be translated as "son of strength" or "son of valor," reflects a character of notable standing and capability.

Biblical Reference:

Benhail is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9, during the reign of King Jehoshaphat, who was known for his efforts to bring the people of Judah back to the worship of Yahweh and adherence to the Law. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following account:

"In the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent his officials—Benhail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah—to teach in the cities of Judah. With them were certain Levites—Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah—and the priests Elishama and Jehoram. They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD. They went throughout the towns of Judah and taught the people."

Role and Significance:

Benhail was one of the officials appointed by King Jehoshaphat to lead a significant educational and religious reform. This initiative was part of Jehoshaphat's broader strategy to strengthen the spiritual and moral fabric of the nation by ensuring that the people were well-versed in the Law of the Lord. The inclusion of Benhail in this mission underscores his importance and reliability as a leader capable of instructing the people in the ways of God.

The mission of Benhail and his fellow officials was not merely administrative but deeply spiritual, aiming to counteract the idolatrous practices that had crept into Judah. By teaching the Law, they sought to renew the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing obedience, righteousness, and the blessings that come from following God's commandments.

Historical and Theological Context:

The period of Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by a return to the worship of Yahweh, contrasting with the syncretism and idolatry that had plagued both the northern kingdom of Israel and, at times, Judah itself. Jehoshaphat's reforms, including the mission of Benhail, were instrumental in fostering a national identity centered on the worship of the one true God.

Benhail's role in this reform highlights the importance of teaching and leadership in maintaining the spiritual health of a community. His work, alongside the Levites and priests, was crucial in ensuring that the people of Judah understood the Law and its implications for their daily lives.

Legacy:

While Benhail is not a widely known biblical figure, his contribution to the religious education and reform in Judah under Jehoshaphat's reign is a testament to the impact that faithful leaders can have in guiding a nation back to God. His involvement in this mission reflects the biblical principle that knowledge of God's Word is foundational to a life of faith and obedience.Benhail

son of strength

Benhail

(son of the host, strong), one of the princes whom King Jehoshaphat sent to teach in the cities of Judah. (2 Chronicles 17:7)

BEN-HAIL

ben-ha'-il (ben-chayil, "son of strength"; compare HPN, 65, 231): One of the princes who was sent by Jehoshaphat "to teach in the cities of Judah" (2 Chronicles 17:7).

1134. Ben-chayil -- "son of might," one of Jehoshaphat's leaders
... Ben-chayil. 1135 . "son of might," one of Jehoshaphat's leaders. Transliteration:
Ben-chayil Phonetic Spelling: (ben-khah'-yil) Short Definition: Benhail. ...
/hebrew/1134.htm - 6kBenhail (1 Occurrence)
... Chronicles 17:7). Multi-Version Concordance Benhail (1 Occurrence). 2
Chronicles 17:7 Also in the third year of his reign he sent ...
/b/benhail.htm - 7k

Nethaneel (14 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 17:7 Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, even
to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to ...
/n/nethaneel.htm - 11k

Michaiah (7 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 17:7 Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, even
to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to ...
/m/michaiah.htm - 9k

Ben-hadad's (2 Occurrences)
Ben-hadad's. Ben-ha'dad, Ben-hadad's. Benhail . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Ben-ha'dad, Ben-hadad's. Benhail . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-hadad's.htm - 7k

Ben-hail (1 Occurrence)
Ben-hail. Benhail, Ben-hail. Benhanan . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BEN-HAIL. ... Benhail, Ben-hail. Benhanan . Reference Bible.
/b/ben-hail.htm - 7k

Teachers (87 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 17:7 In the third year of his rule he sent Benhail and Obadiah and
Zechariah and Nethanel and Micaiah, his captains, as teachers into the towns of ...
/t/teachers.htm - 31k

Captains (159 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 17:7 In the third year of his rule he sent Benhail and Obadiah and
Zechariah and Nethanel and Micaiah, his captains, as teachers into the towns of ...
/c/captains.htm - 42k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus