Topical Encyclopedia The term "Zebulunite" refers to a member of the tribe of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe traces its lineage to Zebulun, the sixth son of Jacob and Leah, as recorded in Genesis 30:19-20. The name Zebulun is often associated with the Hebrew word for "dwelling" or "honor."Biblical Background The tribe of Zebulun is first mentioned in the blessings of Jacob, where he prophesies over his sons. In Genesis 49:13, Jacob declares, "Zebulun shall dwell by the seashore and shall be a haven for ships; his border shall extend toward Sidon." This prophecy highlights the tribe's future geographical location and its potential for maritime activities. During the wilderness journey, the Zebulunites were part of the camp of Judah, positioned on the east side of the tabernacle, as described in Numbers 2:3-9. They were led by Eliab, the son of Helon, and their numbers were recorded in the census taken by Moses and Aaron (Numbers 1:30-31). Territory and Settlement Upon entering the Promised Land, the tribe of Zebulun was allotted a territory in the northern region of Canaan. The boundaries of Zebulun's inheritance are detailed in Joshua 19:10-16. The land included fertile areas conducive to agriculture and trade, fulfilling Jacob's blessing of a maritime connection. The Zebulunites played a significant role in the conquest and settlement of Canaan. They were part of the coalition of tribes that fought under the leadership of Deborah and Barak against the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera, as recounted in Judges 4 and 5. Judges 5:18 commends the tribe for risking their lives in battle: "Zebulun was a people who risked their lives to the death; Naphtali, too, on the heights of the battlefield." Notable Zebulunites Several notable figures in the Bible are identified as Zebulunites. Among them is Elon, who served as a judge of Israel for ten years, as mentioned in Judges 12:11-12. Another significant Zebulunite is Gaddiel, the son of Sodi, who was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:10). Role in Israel's History The tribe of Zebulun, like other northern tribes, experienced periods of apostasy and renewal throughout Israel's history. They were part of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. Despite periods of idolatry, the Zebulunites were among those who responded to King Hezekiah's call to return to the worship of Yahweh during his religious reforms (2 Chronicles 30:10-11). In the New Testament, the region of Zebulun is mentioned in the context of Jesus' ministry. Matthew 4:13-16 cites the prophecy of Isaiah, highlighting the significance of the land of Zebulun and Naphtali as the place where Jesus began His public ministry, bringing light to those dwelling in darkness. Cultural and Religious Significance The Zebulunites, as part of the larger Israelite community, participated in the religious and cultural life centered around the worship of Yahweh. They were expected to adhere to the covenantal laws given through Moses and to participate in the annual feasts and sacrifices prescribed in the Torah. The tribe's legacy is preserved in the biblical narrative as a testament to their role in the unfolding account of God's people. The Zebulunites, through their faithfulness and courage, contributed to the establishment and preservation of Israel as a nation set apart for God's purposes. Strong's Hebrew 5476. Sodi -- a Zebulunite... 5475, 5476. Sodi. 5477 . a Zebulunite. Transliteration: Sodi Phonetic Spelling: (so-dee') Short Definition: Sodi. Word Origin from ... /hebrew/5476.htm - 6k 3177. Yachleel -- "wait for God," a Zebulunite 2075. Zebuloni -- descendant of Zebulun Thesaurus Zebulunite (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Zebulunite (3 Occurrences). ... Judges 12:11 After him Elon the Zebulunite judged Israel; and he judged Israel ten years. ... /z/zebulunite.htm - 7k Elon (8 Occurrences) Zeb'ulun (41 Occurrences) Zebulun (46 Occurrences) Zethan (1 Occurrence) Zeb'ulunite (2 Occurrences) Uzzi (11 Occurrences) Uzziel (17 Occurrences) Obadiah (21 Occurrences) Jeush (9 Occurrences) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Zebulun? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Tola, Jair, Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Zebulunite (3 Occurrences)Numbers 26:27 Judges 12:11 Judges 12:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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