Topical Bible: Tribe of Benjamin: Census of Jerusalem within the territory of

Bible > Topical > Tribe of Benjamin

◄ Tribe of Benjamin: Census of Jerusalem within the territory of ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the city of Jerusalem. As one of the twelve tribes of Israel, Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The tribe's territory, as allocated in the division of the Promised Land, included a portion of the land surrounding Jerusalem, which later became a central city in Israel's history.

Territory and Significance

The territory of Benjamin was strategically located between the tribes of Judah to the south and Ephraim to the north. This positioning made it a critical area for trade and military defense. The land of Benjamin included several key cities, such as Gibeah, Bethel, and Mizpah, but its proximity to Jerusalem is of particular note. Although Jerusalem was initially a Jebusite city, it later became the political and spiritual center of Israel under King David, who was from the tribe of Judah.

Census of Jerusalem

The census of Jerusalem, as recorded in the Scriptures, provides insight into the population and organization of the city during various periods. In the post-exilic period, the Book of Nehemiah records a census that includes the inhabitants of Jerusalem, many of whom were from the tribe of Benjamin. Nehemiah 11:4-9 states:

"Some of the descendants of Judah and Benjamin settled in Jerusalem. From the descendants of Judah: Athaiah son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, a descendant of Perez; and Maaseiah son of Baruch, the son of Colhozeh, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, a descendant of Shelah. The descendants of Perez who settled in Jerusalem totaled 468 men of valor. From the descendants of Benjamin: Sallu son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jeshaiah; and his followers, Gabbai and Sallai—928 men. Joel son of Zichri was the officer over them, and Judah son of Hassenuah was over the city."

This passage highlights the presence and contribution of the Benjaminites in the rebuilding and repopulation of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The tribe's involvement in the restoration efforts underscores their enduring connection to the city and their role in the reestablishment of the Jewish community.

Historical Context

Throughout Israel's history, the tribe of Benjamin maintained a unique identity. Despite its small size, the tribe produced significant figures, including King Saul, Israel's first king, and the Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus. The tribe's resilience and adaptability are evident in their continued presence in Jerusalem and their participation in the city's governance and defense.

The census records, such as those found in Nehemiah, serve as a testament to the tribe's enduring legacy and their integral role in the life of Jerusalem. The Benjaminites' strategic location and their contributions to the city's development highlight their importance in the biblical narrative and the history of Israel.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 6:1
O you children of Benjamin, gather yourselves to flee out of the middle of Jerusalem, and blow the trumpet in Tekoa, and set up a sign of fire in Bethhaccerem: for evil appears out of the north, and great destruction.
Nave's Topical Index