Jahzeel: A Son of Naphtali
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Jahzeel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Naphtali, who was the sixth son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Jahzeel's name, which can be translated to mean "God apportions" or "God divides," reflects the divine providence and allocation of blessings among the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

Jahzeel is first mentioned in the Book of Genesis, where the genealogy of the sons of Jacob is recorded. In Genesis 46:24 , it states: "The sons of Naphtali: Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem." This passage is part of the larger narrative describing Jacob's family as they journey to Egypt during the time of famine, highlighting the importance of family lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The descendants of Jahzeel, along with those of his brothers, formed the tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This tribe played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly in the allocation of the Promised Land. In Numbers 26:48-49 , during the second census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the descendants of Naphtali are enumerated: "The descendants of Naphtali by their clans were: The Jahzeelite clan from Jahzeel, the Gunite clan from Guni, the Jezerite clan from Jezer, the Shillemite clan from Shillem."

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Naphtali, to which Jahzeel belonged, was allocated a portion of land in the northern region of Canaan, as described in the Book of Joshua. This territory included fertile lands and significant cities, contributing to the tribe's prosperity and influence. The tribe's location also placed it in a strategic position for trade and interaction with neighboring peoples.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the tribe of Naphtali is noted for its valor and contributions to Israel's military efforts. In the Song of Deborah, found in Judges 5, the tribe of Naphtali is praised for its bravery in battle against the Canaanite forces led by Sisera. This valor is a testament to the strength and courage of the descendants of Naphtali, including those of Jahzeel's lineage.

Cultural and Theological Insights:

Jahzeel's inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family heritage and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. Each name in these genealogies represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive plan for His people. Jahzeel, as a progenitor of one of the clans of Naphtali, contributes to the broader narrative of Israel's history and God's faithfulness to His chosen people.

The name Jahzeel, meaning "God apportions," serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His role as the ultimate provider and distributor of blessings. This theme resonates throughout the biblical text, emphasizing that all things are under God's control and that He apportions according to His divine will and purpose.

In summary, Jahzeel, as a son of Naphtali, holds a place within the rich tapestry of Israel's history, representing both the continuity of God's promises and the unique contributions of the tribe of Naphtali to the nation of Israel. His mention in the genealogies serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the patriarchs and the unfolding of God's plan for His people.
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Genesis 46:24
And the sons of Naphtali; Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem.
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Numbers 26:48
Of the sons of Naphtali after their families: of Jahzeel, the family of the Jahzeelites: of Guni, the family of the Gunites:
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1 Chronicles 7:13
The sons of Naphtali; Jahziel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shallum, the sons of Bilhah.
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Strong's Hebrew
3183. Yachtseel -- "God apportions," a son of Naphtali
... Jahzeel. Word Origin from chatsah and el Definition "God apportions," a
son of Naphtali NASB Word Usage Jahzeel (2). Jahzeel. From ...
/hebrew/3183.htm - 6k
Library

Chapter xlvi
... But to Gera it ascribes one son: Ard. ... 23-25. And the sons of Dan: Hushim. And the
sons of Naphtali: Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Resources
Who was Naphtali in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Bilhah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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