Topical Encyclopedia
The Tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in the history of Israel, particularly during the period of the divided kingdom. Following the death of King Solomon, the united monarchy of Israel faced a pivotal moment that led to its division. Rehoboam, Solomon's son, ascended to the throne, but his harsh policies and refusal to lighten the heavy burdens imposed by his father led to a rebellion by the northern tribes. This rebellion resulted in the formation of the northern kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam, while Rehoboam retained control over the southern kingdom of Judah.
The Tribe of Benjamin, despite its geographical proximity to the northern tribes, remained loyal to the house of David and the kingdom of Judah. This loyalty is significant, as it highlights the tribe's historical and covenantal ties to the Davidic line. The tribe's allegiance to Rehoboam is documented in the biblical narrative, where it is noted that Benjamin, along with Judah, formed the core of the southern kingdom.
In the account of the division of the kingdom,
1 Kings 12 and
2 Chronicles 10-11 provide insight into the political and tribal dynamics of the time. The Berean Standard Bible captures the essence of this period. In
1 Kings 12:21 , it is recorded: "When Rehoboam arrived in Jerusalem, he mobilized the whole house of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin—180,000 chosen warriors—to fight against the house of Israel and restore the kingdom to Rehoboam son of Solomon." This passage underscores the military and political support that Benjamin offered to Rehoboam, emphasizing their role in the defense and consolidation of the southern kingdom.
The loyalty of Benjamin to Rehoboam can be attributed to several factors. Historically, the tribe had strong ties to the house of David, as Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, was located on the border of Benjaminite territory. Additionally, the tribe's proximity to the religious and political center of Jerusalem likely influenced their decision to remain with Judah. The Benjaminites' support was crucial for Rehoboam, as it provided a buffer against the northern kingdom and helped maintain the stability of his reign.
The census of those loyal to Rehoboam, including the Benjaminites, reflects the broader theme of covenant faithfulness and the preservation of the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative. The tribe's allegiance is a testament to their enduring commitment to the promises made to David and the continuity of his dynasty, which holds eschatological significance in the Christian tradition.
In summary, the Tribe of Benjamin's loyalty to Rehoboam during the division of the kingdom is a key event in biblical history. It highlights the tribe's strategic importance, their covenantal ties to the house of David, and their role in the preservation of the southern kingdom of Judah.
Nave's Topical Index
1 Kings 12:21And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he assembled all the house of Judah, with the tribe of Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight against the house of Israel, to bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam the son of Solomon.
Nave's Topical Index2 Chronicles 11:1
And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and Benjamin an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight against Israel, that he might bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam.
Nave's Topical Index
Resources
Who was Joseph in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the twelve tribes of Israel? | GotQuestions.orgBenjamin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
