Numbers 2:22
Then the tribe of Benjamin: and the captain of the sons of Benjamin shall be Abidan the son of Gideoni.
Original Language Analysis
וּמַטֵּ֖ה
Then the tribe
H4294
וּמַטֵּ֖ה
Then the tribe
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
1 of 8
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
בִנְיָמִ֔ן
of Benjamin
H1144
בִנְיָמִ֔ן
of Benjamin
Strong's:
H1144
Word #:
2 of 8
binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
וְנָשִׂיא֙
and the captain
H5387
וְנָשִׂיא֙
and the captain
Strong's:
H5387
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
בֶּן
of the sons
H1121
בֶּן
of the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בִנְיָמִ֔ן
of Benjamin
H1144
בִנְיָמִ֔ן
of Benjamin
Strong's:
H1144
Word #:
5 of 8
binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
Cross References
Historical Context
Benjamin's placement in the Ephraim division created bonds that would later manifest in complex ways—sometimes allied with northern Ephraim, sometimes loyal to southern Judah, reflecting the tribe's transitional position geographically and politically.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Benjamin's family alliance with Ephraim yet later loyalty to Judah illustrate the complexity of relationships and loyalties in God's people?
- What does this teach us about the formative influence of early associations on later commitments?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Benjamin's camp placement with Joseph's sons (Ephraim and Manasseh) joined Rachel's two sons in one division, honoring her memory and maintaining family solidarity. Benjamin's loyalty to Judah in later generations (1 Kings 12:21) showed how early associations and family ties influenced later alliances. The principle extends broadly: early relationships and associations shape later loyalties and decisions.