Topical Encyclopedia Deuel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the wilderness journey of the Israelites. He is identified as the father of Eliasaph, who served as the leader or captain of the tribe of Dan during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent wanderings in the desert.Biblical References: Deuel is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, where the organization and leadership of the tribes of Israel are detailed. In Numbers 1:14, the Berean Standard Bible (BSB) states: "from Dan, Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai." However, in Numbers 2:14, the BSB reads: "Then comes the tribe of Dan, and the leader of the Danites is Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai." This discrepancy in names is a textual variant, as some manuscripts and translations refer to Deuel instead of Ammishaddai. The name Deuel appears in Numbers 7:42 and Numbers 10:20, where Eliasaph is consistently identified as the son of Deuel. Role and Significance: Deuel's significance is primarily linked to his son, Eliasaph, who played a crucial role as the leader of the tribe of Dan. The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, each of which had a designated leader responsible for the census, organization, and military readiness of their respective tribe. As the father of Eliasaph, Deuel is part of the genealogical record that underscores the divinely ordained leadership structure among the Israelites. The tribe of Dan, under the leadership of Eliasaph, was positioned as the rear guard during the Israelites' march through the wilderness (Numbers 10:25). This strategic placement highlights the importance of the tribe in maintaining the security and order of the Israelite camp during their journey to the Promised Land. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of Deuel and his son Eliasaph underscores the importance of lineage and divine appointment in the leadership of God's chosen people. The organization of the tribes and the appointment of leaders were seen as divinely guided, reflecting God's sovereignty and order. The role of Deuel, though not extensively detailed, is part of the broader narrative of God's faithfulness in guiding and providing for the Israelites through established leadership. Textual Considerations: The variation in the name of Eliasaph's father—Deuel versus Ammishaddai—has been a subject of scholarly discussion. Such textual variants are not uncommon in ancient manuscripts and are often attributed to scribal errors or differences in oral traditions. Conservative Christian scholarship typically views these variations as non-essential to the core message of the Scriptures, emphasizing the reliability and divine inspiration of the biblical text as a whole. In summary, Deuel's mention in the biblical narrative, though brief, contributes to the understanding of the tribal leadership structure during a pivotal period in Israel's history. His legacy is primarily carried through his son, Eliasaph, who served as a key leader in the tribe of Dan. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 1:14Of Gad; Eliasaph the son of Deuel. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 2:14 Numbers 7:42 Numbers 10:20 Resources What is the 21st Century King James Version (KJ21)? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |