Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, holds a unique place in biblical history, often associated with themes of favor and blessing. His account is woven throughout the Old Testament, highlighting the special affection and favor he received from his father, Jacob, and later from his brother, Joseph.

Birth and Early Life

Benjamin's birth is recorded in Genesis 35:16-18. Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife, died during childbirth, naming her son Ben-Oni, meaning "son of my sorrow." However, Jacob renamed him Benjamin, meaning "son of the right hand," signifying strength and favor. This renaming reflects Jacob's deep affection and the special status Benjamin held within the family.

Jacob's Favor

Jacob's favor towards Benjamin is evident in Genesis 42-44, during the narrative of Joseph's brothers traveling to Egypt to buy grain. After Joseph, who had risen to power in Egypt, recognized his brothers, he tested them by demanding that they bring Benjamin to Egypt. Jacob's reluctance to send Benjamin, fearing harm might come to him, underscores the special place Benjamin held in his heart. Genesis 42:4 states, "But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph’s brother, with his brothers, for he said, 'I am afraid that harm might befall him.'"

Joseph's Favor

Joseph's favor towards Benjamin is also significant. When the brothers returned to Egypt with Benjamin, Joseph showed him preferential treatment. In Genesis 43:34 , it is noted, "When the portions were served to them from Joseph’s table, Benjamin’s portion was five times larger than any of the others." This act of favor was a test of the brothers' character and a reflection of Joseph's deep affection for his only full brother.

Tribe of Benjamin

The tribe of Benjamin, descended from Jacob's youngest son, played a crucial role in Israel's history. Despite being the smallest tribe, it produced several significant figures, including King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus. The tribe's territory was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, often serving as a buffer and playing a pivotal role in the nation's affairs.

Prophetic Blessings

Jacob's blessing over Benjamin in Genesis 49:27 is both enigmatic and prophetic: "Benjamin is a ravenous wolf; in the morning he devours the prey, and in the evening he divides the plunder." This blessing suggests a future of strength and victory, characteristics that would be evident in the tribe's history.

Moses also blessed the tribe of Benjamin in Deuteronomy 33:12 , saying, "About Benjamin he said: 'May the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him; God shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between His shoulders.'" This blessing emphasizes divine protection and favor, reinforcing Benjamin's special status among the tribes of Israel.

Conclusion

Benjamin's favor, as depicted in the Bible, is a multifaceted theme that highlights familial love, divine blessing, and prophetic significance. His account and the legacy of his tribe continue to be a testament to the enduring themes of favor and providence in the biblical narrative.