Topical Encyclopedia Jezer is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Naphtali, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Naphtali was the sixth son of Jacob and the second son born to him by Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Jezer is listed among the descendants of Naphtali, who became one of the tribes of Israel.Biblical References: Jezer is specifically mentioned in the genealogical records found in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 26:48-49 , the text states: "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." This passage highlights Jezer as the progenitor of the Jezerite clan within the tribe of Naphtali. Tribal Significance: The tribe of Naphtali, to which Jezer belonged, played a significant role in the history of Israel. The tribe was known for its valor and was allotted a portion of land in the northern region of Canaan, as described in the Book of Joshua. The territory of Naphtali was fertile and strategically located, contributing to the tribe's prosperity and influence. Jezer's mention in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Each clan within a tribe had its own distinct identity and role, contributing to the overall structure and function of the Israelite community. Cultural and Historical Context: In the context of ancient Israel, genealogies served not only as records of ancestry but also as a means of establishing legal rights to land and inheritance. The listing of Jezer among the sons of Naphtali reflects the patriarchal nature of Israelite society, where lineage was traced through the male line. The tribe of Naphtali, including the Jezerites, was known for its warriors and played a part in various military campaigns throughout Israel's history. The tribe's location in the northern part of Israel made it a key player in the defense and expansion of the nation. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Jezer in the biblical record highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The multiplication and establishment of the tribes of Israel were seen as a direct result of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Each tribe, including Naphtali and its clans, was a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plan for His chosen people. Jezer's place in the genealogy of Naphtali serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the tribes and the unity of the nation of Israel under the covenant with Yahweh. The preservation of these genealogies in Scripture underscores the importance of heritage and identity in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:24And the sons of Naphtali; Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:49 1 Chronicles 7:13 Strong's Hebrew 3337. Yetser -- a son of Naphtali... Word Origin from yatsar Definition a son of Naphtali NASB Word Usage Jezer (3). Jezer. The same as yetser; Jetser, an Israelite -- Jezer. see HEBREW yetser. ... /hebrew/3337.htm - 6k Library Chapter xlvi Resources Who was Naphtali in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Bilhah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |