Topical Encyclopedia Naphtali is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the sixth son of Jacob and his second wife, Bilhah, who was Rachel's maidservant. The name "Naphtali" is often interpreted to mean "my struggle" or "wrestling," reflecting Rachel's struggle with her sister Leah for Jacob's affection (Genesis 30:7-8).Biblical Background Naphtali was born during a period of intense rivalry between Rachel and Leah, as they vied for Jacob's love and sought to bear him sons. Rachel, who was initially barren, gave her maidservant Bilhah to Jacob as a concubine, and Bilhah bore Naphtali. Rachel declared, "I have wrestled with my sister and won," thus naming him Naphtali (Genesis 30:8). Territory and Settlement The tribe of Naphtali was allocated a region in the northern part of the Promised Land, as described in the Book of Joshua. Their territory was bounded by the tribes of Asher to the west, Zebulun and Issachar to the south, and the Jordan River to the east. This area included fertile land and significant trade routes, contributing to the tribe's prosperity. The land of Naphtali is noted for its beauty and abundance, as reflected in Moses' blessing: "Naphtali is abounding with favor and full of the blessing of the LORD; he shall inherit the south and the west" (Deuteronomy 33:23). Role in Israel's History The tribe of Naphtali played a significant role in several key events in Israel's history. During the period of the Judges, Barak, a leader from Naphtali, was called by the prophetess Deborah to lead an army against the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. With God's help, Barak achieved a decisive victory (Judges 4-5). In the era of the united monarchy, Naphtali was part of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division following King Solomon's reign. The tribe's strategic location made it vulnerable to invasions, and it was among the first to suffer during the Assyrian conquest under Tiglath-Pileser III, leading to the exile of many of its inhabitants (2 Kings 15:29). Prophetic Significance Naphtali holds prophetic significance in the Messianic context. The region of Naphtali, along with Zebulun, is mentioned in the prophecy of Isaiah concerning the coming of the Messiah: "Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future He will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan" (Isaiah 9:1). This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Testament, as Jesus began His ministry in Galilee, which encompasses the land of Naphtali (Matthew 4:13-16). Cultural and Spiritual Legacy The tribe of Naphtali is remembered for its resilience and faithfulness. Despite facing challenges and adversities, the tribe's legacy is one of strength and perseverance. The blessings pronounced upon Naphtali emphasize favor and divine blessing, underscoring the tribe's enduring place in the history and spiritual heritage of Israel. Library The Growth of the Old Testament Prophetic Histories A Solemn Deprival "What Mean These Stones?" Josh. Iv. 21 Of the Cities of Refuge. A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs. Thesaurus Napthali (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Napthali (1 Occurrence). Genesis 30:8 and Rachel saith, 'With wrestlings of God I have wrestled with my ... /n/napthali.htm - 6k Napkins (1 Occurrence) Narath Calleth (261 Occurrences) Yea (867 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Napthali (1 Occurrence)Genesis 30:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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