Shupham is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. He is recognized as one of the descendants of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and is part of the broader narrative of the Israelite tribes. The name "Shupham" is sometimes rendered as "Shephupham" in various translations, reflecting slight variations in the Hebrew text.

Biblical References:

Shupham is mentioned in the genealogical listings found in the Old Testament. In 1 Chronicles 8:5 , he is listed among the sons of Benjamin: "And the sons of Benjamin were Bela, Becher, and Jediael—three in all." Further down in the genealogical record, Shupham is identified as a descendant of Benjamin, though the specific verse in 1 Chronicles does not directly name him. Instead, his lineage is more explicitly detailed in Numbers 26:39 , where the descendants of Benjamin are enumerated: "The descendants of Bela were Ard and Naaman. These were the clans of the Ardite and the Naamite."

In Numbers 26:39, Shupham is referred to as "Shephupham," indicating a possible textual variation or transliteration difference. This passage is part of the census taken by Moses and Eleazar, the priest, on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho. The census was conducted to number the Israelite men who were able to go to war, and it provides a detailed account of the tribal families.

Tribal Significance:

As a member of the tribe of Benjamin, Shupham's lineage is significant in understanding the composition and distribution of the Israelite tribes. The tribe of Benjamin held a unique position among the tribes of Israel, being the smallest tribe but also producing significant figures in Israel's history, such as King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul in the New Testament.

The genealogical records, including those mentioning Shupham, serve to establish the historical and familial connections within the tribe of Benjamin. These records were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights, especially as the Israelites settled in the Promised Land.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The genealogies in the Old Testament, including those of the tribe of Benjamin, reflect the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in ancient Israelite society. These records were not merely lists of names but were integral to the social, religious, and political structure of the nation. They provided a framework for understanding the distribution of land, the organization of the military, and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

In the broader narrative of the Bible, the tribe of Benjamin, and by extension, its members like Shupham, played a role in the unfolding account of God's covenant with Israel. The tribe's location, bordering the powerful tribe of Judah, and its involvement in key biblical events underscore its importance in the history of Israel.

Conclusion:

While Shupham himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the meticulous care with which the Israelites preserved their tribal heritage. His mention serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribe of Benjamin within the history of God's chosen people.Numbers 26:39
Of Shupham, the family of the Shuphamites: of Hupham, the family of the Huphamites.
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