Topical Encyclopedia
Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, holds a significant place in biblical history. His birth is recorded in
Genesis 35:16-18, where Rachel names him Ben-Oni, meaning "son of my sorrow," as she dies during childbirth. However, Jacob renames him Benjamin, meaning "son of the right hand." As the twelfth son of Jacob, Benjamin is the progenitor of the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
The tribe of Benjamin is known for its fierce warriors and played a crucial role in Israel's history. In the division of the Promised Land, the territory allotted to Benjamin was strategically located between the tribes of Judah and Ephraim, encompassing the city of Jerusalem. This location contributed to the tribe's influence and involvement in key biblical events.
One of the most notable figures from the tribe of Benjamin is King Saul, the first king of Israel, as mentioned in
1 Samuel 9:1-2. The tribe's reputation for bravery is further highlighted in the account of the Benjamite warriors, who were skilled with the sling, as described in
Judges 20:16.
The Apostle Paul, originally named Saul, also hailed from the tribe of Benjamin. In
Philippians 3:5, Paul refers to his Benjamite heritage, emphasizing his deep roots in Jewish tradition.
HasshubHasshub is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period. The name Hasshub appears in several genealogical and historical records in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
In
Nehemiah 3:23, Hasshub is listed among those who repaired the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah's leadership. This passage highlights the collaborative effort of various families and individuals in restoring the city's fortifications, a task crucial for the re-establishment of Jerusalem as a center of Jewish life and worship.
Hasshub is also mentioned in the genealogies of the Levites in
1 Chronicles 9:14 and
Nehemiah 11:15. These records indicate that Hasshub was a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties and service in the temple. The Levites played a vital role in maintaining the spiritual life of the community, especially during the period of restoration following the exile.
The name Hasshub, meaning "considerate" or "thoughtful," reflects the character and dedication of those who bore it, contributing to the rebuilding and spiritual renewal of the Jewish people during a pivotal time in their history.
