“And of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon.”
Context:The book of Numbers is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, which were written by Moses. Numbers focuses on the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness and their preparation to enter the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is instructed by God to appoint one leader from each tribe to help divide the land of Canaan among the Israelites.
Tribe of Benjamin:The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel. The tribe of Benjamin played a significant role in the history of Israel, including producing the first king of Israel, Saul, as well as the apostle Paul in the New Testament.
Elidad:Elidad was the representative of the tribe of Benjamin chosen by Moses to participate in the division of the land. Unfortunately, not much is known about Elidad apart from his name and his father’s name, Chislon. He is mentioned only once in the Bible, in this specific verse.
The significance:Although the verse seems brief and lacks detailed information, it emphasises the fairness and organisation of the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. Each tribe had its representative, ensuring that the division was done justly and in accordance with God’s instructions.
Lessons for us:While we may not have specific information about Elidad or his role, this verse reminds us of the importance of being faithful in the tasks God has entrusted to us, regardless of whether they are highly visible or not. Elidad was chosen to represent the tribe of Benjamin in this crucial event, even though we know very little about him. It serves as a reminder that every role and responsibility in God’s kingdom is significant, and each person has a part to play.
Application:As believers, we can apply the lessons from Numbers 34:22 by faithfully carrying out the tasks and responsibilities God has given us, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant they may appear. We can trust that God sees and values our obedience, even if it goes unnoticed by others. Our focus should be on serving the Lord wholeheartedly, knowing that our efforts contribute to His greater purposes.
Remember, the Bible is rich with teachings and insights, and every verse has its own significance within the broader narrative. It is beneficial to explore the surrounding verses and context to gain a deeper understanding of God’s message.
