Shedeur is a biblical figure recognized as the father of Elizur, who was a leader of the tribe of Reuben during the Israelites' wilderness journey after the Exodus from Egypt. The name Shedeur is of Hebrew origin, and it is often interpreted to mean "Shaddai is a flame" or "the Almighty is a fire," reflecting a theophoric element that attributes a divine characteristic to the name.

Biblical References:

Shedeur is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, which provides a detailed account of the organization and leadership of the Israelite tribes during their encampment and travels in the wilderness. His primary mention is in the context of the census and the arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle.

1. Numbers 1:5 · "These are the names of the men who are to assist you: from Reuben, Elizur son of Shedeur."

2. Numbers 2:10 · "On the south side, the divisions of Reuben are to camp under their standard. The leader of the Reubenites is Elizur son of Shedeur."

3. Numbers 7:30 · "On the fourth day Elizur son of Shedeur, the leader of the Reubenites, drew near."

4. Numbers 10:18 · "Then the divisions of the camp of Reuben set out, under their standard, with Elizur son of Shedeur in command."

Role and Significance:

Shedeur's significance in the biblical narrative is primarily through his son, Elizur, who served as a chieftain or leader of the tribe of Reuben. The tribe of Reuben, being the descendants of Jacob's firstborn son, held a notable position among the tribes of Israel. Elizur's leadership role, as indicated by his repeated mention alongside Shedeur, underscores the importance of familial lineage and tribal leadership in the organization of the Israelite community.

The mention of Shedeur in the context of the census and the offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes (Numbers 7) highlights the structured and communal nature of Israelite society, where each tribe had designated leaders responsible for representing their people before Moses and the Lord.

Cultural and Theological Context:

In the cultural and theological context of the Old Testament, names often carried significant meaning and were reflective of the individual's character or divine purpose. The name Shedeur, incorporating the element "Shaddai," suggests a connection to the divine, emphasizing the belief in God's active presence and guidance in the lives of the Israelites.

The role of Shedeur, though not extensively detailed in the biblical text, is integral to understanding the lineage and leadership dynamics within the tribe of Reuben. His mention serves as a testament to the importance of family heritage and the continuity of leadership roles passed down through generations, which were central themes in the narrative of the Israelite people.Numbers 1:5
And these are the names of the men that shall stand with you: of the tribe of Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur.
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Numbers 2:10
On the south side shall be the standard of the camp of Reuben according to their armies: and the captain of the children of Reuben shall be Elizur the son of Shedeur.
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Numbers 7:30,35
On the fourth day Elizur the son of Shedeur, prince of the children of Reuben, did offer:
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Numbers 10:18
And the standard of the camp of Reuben set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elizur the son of Shedeur.
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