The youngest son of Jacob and second son of Rachel, whose birth cost Rachel her life near Bethlehem. Jacob was especially protective of Benjamin after losing Joseph, nearly refusing to let him journey to Egypt. The tribe of Benjamin was small but fierce—Israel’s first king, Saul, and the apostle Paul both came from this tribe. Benjamin’s territory included Jerusalem.
And with her last breath—for she was dying—she named him Ben-oni. But his father called him Benjamin.Genesis 35:18 · Berean Standard Bible
Later, they set out from Bethel, and while they were still some distance from Ephrath, Rachel began to give birth, and her labor was difficult. During her severe labor, the midwife said to her, “Do not be afraid, for you are having another son.” And with her last breath—for she was dying—she named him Ben-oni. But his father called him Benjamin.
God calls Jacob back to where it all started. Rachel dies on the road. The promises continue through grief.
Benjamin is a ravenous wolf; in the morning he devours the prey, in the evening he divides the plunder.”
Jacob speaks over each son with prophetic weight. Judah receives the scepter. The lion will come from his line.
Benjamin doesn't appear in the direct line from Adam to Jesus, but stands one step from it through Jacob, who does. See the whole line.
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