Ard is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the descendants of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. His name appears in genealogical records that highlight the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 46:21 · Ard is listed among the sons of Benjamin who went down to Egypt with Jacob. The verse states: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard."

2. Numbers 26:38-40 · In the census of the Israelites conducted in the wilderness, Ard is mentioned as a descendant of Benjamin through his son Bela. The passage reads: "The descendants of Benjamin by their clans were: the Belaite clan from Bela, the Ashbelite clan from Ashbel, the Ahiramite clan from Ahiram, the Shuphamite clan from Shupham, and the Huphamite clan from Hupham. The descendants of Bela were Ard and Naaman."

3. 1 Chronicles 8:3 · Ard is again noted in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. The verse states: "The sons of Bela were Addar, Gera, Abihud, Abishua, Naaman, Ahoah, Gera, Shephuphan, and Huram."

Tribal Significance:

Ard's inclusion in these genealogical lists underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. As a member of the tribe of Benjamin, Ard's descendants would have been part of a tribe known for its warriors and its strategic location between the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel. The tribe of Benjamin played a significant role in Israel's history, providing the first king, Saul, and later aligning with the tribe of Judah during the divided monarchy.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The genealogies in which Ard is mentioned serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's promises to the patriarchs. The preservation of these lineages reflects the Israelites' understanding of their identity as God's chosen people, with each tribe contributing to the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Ard's presence in these records, though brief, is a testament to the continuity of God's faithfulness across generations. His name, meaning "fugitive" or "roving," may also reflect the experiences of the tribe of Benjamin, which faced various challenges and migrations throughout its history.

Conclusion:

Ard, as a son of Benjamin, represents a link in the chain of Israel's tribal heritage. His mention in the biblical genealogies highlights the importance of family and tribal connections in the narrative of God's people. Through Ard and his descendants, the legacy of Benjamin continued to shape the history and identity of Israel.Genesis 46:21
And the sons of Benjamin were Belah, and Becher, and Ashbel, Gera, and Naaman, Ehi, and Rosh, Muppim, and Huppim, and Ard.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... correct. It regroups Benjamin's descendants. It gives him three sons: Bela,
Becher and Ashbel. ... But to Gera it ascribes one son: Ard. We ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

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