Benjamin

Q: What became of the tribe of Benjamin?

The tribe of Benjamin produced Israel's first king (Saul), nearly was destroyed in Judges 19-21, and remained loyal to Judah after the kingdom split. The apostle Paul was a Benjamite. Though small, Benjamin's descendants played key roles throughout biblical history.

Youngest Son of Jacob

Old Testament

Benjamin was the youngest of Jacob's twelve sons and the only full brother of Joseph. His mother Rachel died giving birth to him. Joseph tested his brothers by demanding Benjamin be brought to Egypt. The tribe of Benjamin later produced King Saul and the apostle Paul.

Character Traits

YoungestBelovedInnocent

Life Timeline

Birthc. 1898 BC

Benjamin is born near Bethlehem; Rachel dies in childbirth.

GEN 35:16-19

Joseph's Testc. 1876 BC

Benjamin goes to Egypt with his brothers; Joseph uses him to test them.

GEN 43:15-16

Silver Cupc. 1876 BC

Joseph's cup is found in Benjamin's sack; Judah pleads for him.

GEN 44:12-34

Blessingc. 1859 BC

Jacob blesses Benjamin as 'a ravenous wolf.'

GEN 49:27

Key Relationships

JacobFamily

Father - Jacob especially loved Benjamin after losing Joseph.

RachelFamily

Mother - Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin.

JosephFamily

Full Brother - Benjamin was Joseph's only full brother through Rachel.

Key Locations

Bethlehem

Where Benjamin was born and Rachel died.

Spiritual Lessons

Object of Protective Love

Benjamin was the object of Jacob's protective love after losing Joseph. This made Judah's willingness to sacrifice himself for Benjamin all the more significant. Sometimes God uses our love for others to transform us.

Key Verses

Genesis 35:16-18 Genesis 43:29-34 Genesis 44:1-34

Frequently Asked Questions

What became of the tribe of Benjamin?+

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