Matri's
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Matri's is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. The name "Matri" is associated with the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The reference to Matri's is brief, yet it holds significance in the narrative of Israel's history and the selection of its first king.

Biblical Reference:

The primary mention of Matri's is found in 1 Samuel 10:21. In this passage, the prophet Samuel is in the process of selecting a king for Israel by divine guidance. The selection process involves casting lots among the tribes and families of Israel. The Berean Standard Bible records this event as follows:

"Then he brought forward the tribe of Benjamin, clan by clan, and the clan of Matri was selected. Finally, Saul son of Kish was chosen. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found."

Context and Significance:

The mention of Matri's occurs during a pivotal moment in Israel's history—the transition from a theocratic system of judges to a monarchy. The tribe of Benjamin, to which Matri's belongs, is one of the smaller tribes of Israel, yet it plays a crucial role in this transition. The selection of Saul, a member of the Matri clan, as the first king of Israel marks the beginning of the monarchy and sets the stage for the subsequent reigns of David and Solomon.

The process of casting lots to determine God's choice for king underscores the belief in divine sovereignty and guidance in the affairs of the nation. The selection of Saul from the Matri clan highlights the unexpected and often mysterious ways in which God chooses individuals for leadership.

Genealogical Implications:

The reference to Matri's in the genealogical context emphasizes the importance of family and tribal affiliations in ancient Israel. Genealogies served not only as records of ancestry but also as a means of establishing identity and legitimacy within the community. The clan of Matri, though not extensively mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, is integral to the lineage of Israel's first king.

Theological Reflections:

From a theological perspective, the selection of Saul from the Matri clan can be seen as a demonstration of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan for Israel. Despite Saul's later failures as king, his initial selection serves as a reminder of God's involvement in the leadership and direction of His people. The narrative invites reflection on the themes of divine choice, human responsibility, and the complexities of leadership in accordance with God's will.

In summary, Matri's, though briefly mentioned, is a significant part of the biblical narrative concerning the establishment of Israel's monarchy. The clan's association with Saul's selection as king highlights the intricate interplay of divine guidance and human agency in the history of Israel.
Concordance
Matri's (1 Occurrence)

1 Samuel 10:21
And he brought the tribe of Benjamin near by their families, and the family of the Matrites was taken; and Saul the son of Kish was taken; but when they sought him, he could not be found.
(See NIV)

Thesaurus
Matri's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Matri's (1 Occurrence). 1 Samuel 10:21 And he
brought the tribe of Benjamin near by their families, and ...
/m/matri's.htm - 6k

Matrite (1 Occurrence)

/m/matrite.htm - 6k

Matricides (1 Occurrence)

/m/matricides.htm - 6k

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