Numbers 34:21

KJV

Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon.

KJV (with Strong's)

Of the tribe {H4294} of Benjamin {H1144}, Elidad {H449} the son {H1121} of Chislon {H3692}.

Complete Jewish Bible

from the tribe of Binyamin, Elidad the son of Kislon;

Berean Standard Bible

Elidad son of Chislon from the tribe of Benjamin;

American Standard Version

Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 34:21 precisely identifies Elidad, son of Chislon, as the divinely appointed leader from the tribe of Benjamin, chosen to assist in the meticulous and equitable distribution of the Promised Land among the Israelite tribes. This verse is part of a larger administrative decree from God, underscoring His detailed oversight and unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Israel regarding their inheritance in Canaan. It highlights the importance of specific, divinely sanctioned leadership in executing God's sovereign purposes for His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 34:21 is situated within a highly administrative and prescriptive section of the Book of Numbers, specifically detailing the boundaries of the Promised Land and the individuals appointed to oversee its division. Chapters 33 and 34 mark a significant transition, moving from Israel's wilderness wanderings and preparations for conquest to the practical arrangements for settling in Canaan. Verses 1-15 meticulously outline the precise geographical borders of the land, emphasizing its divine designation. Following this, verses 16-29 list the specific leaders—one from each tribe—who, alongside Eleazar the priest and Joshua, were to execute this monumental task. Elidad, son of Chislon, is named as Benjamin's representative, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's plan for the distribution of the land, ensuring that each tribe received its rightful inheritance as commanded in [Numbers 26:53-56](/numbers/26-53 "Numbers 26:53-56 - Land Division by Lot"). This detailed listing underscores the seriousness and divine authority behind the impending settlement.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting is the cusp of Israel's entry into the Promised Land, following forty years of wilderness wandering. This period was pivotal, marking the transition from a nomadic existence to a settled agricultural society. The division of land was not merely an administrative act but a foundational event for the nation, establishing tribal territories and solidifying their identity as a people rooted in God's covenant promises. Culturally, land ownership was intrinsically linked to identity, lineage, and economic stability. The meticulous appointment of leaders like Elidad ensured a fair and orderly process, preventing disputes and reinforcing the tribal structure. This process was a direct fulfillment of God's ancient pledge to Abraham, reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan, as seen in [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham"). The selection of specific individuals by divine decree also reflects the hierarchical and divinely appointed leadership structure prevalent in ancient Israelite society, where spiritual and administrative authority often converged.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within its broader context, contributes to several overarching themes. First, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Order and Meticulous Planning**, revealing God's absolute precision in executing His purposes, down to the appointment of specific individuals for specific tasks. Second, it signifies the **Fulfillment of Promise**, as the detailed arrangements for land division underscore the imminent realization of God's centuries-old covenant pledge to grant Israel the land of Canaan. Third, it highlights the theme of **Leadership and Responsibility**, showcasing how divinely appointed individuals like Elidad bore significant responsibility in administering God's will for their respective tribes, emphasizing the importance of faithful stewardship in God's kingdom. Finally, it reinforces **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**, as the naming of a distinct leader for each tribe reaffirms the unique identity and specific portion of the land designated for each of the twelve tribes, ensuring their distinct heritage within the larger nation of Israel, as foreshadowed in [Genesis 49](/genesis/49 "Genesis 49 - Jacob's Blessings and Prophecies for His Sons").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Elidad (Hebrew, _ʼElîyḏāḏ_):** This name means "God has loved" or "God is a friend." While the text does not elaborate on Elidad's character, the meaning of his name subtly points to a theological truth: those chosen for God's work are often those upon whom His favor rests. It suggests a divine selection rooted in God's benevolent disposition, rather than merely human merit. In this context, Elidad's very name could be seen as a quiet affirmation of God's loving hand in the meticulous details of His plan for Israel.
* **Chislon (Hebrew, _Kisəlôn_):** Meaning "confidence" or "hope," Chislon's name, as Elidad's father, might represent the aspirations or character of the family from which Elidad hailed. It could signify a lineage known for its steadfastness or trust, qualities that would be highly valued in a leader tasked with the crucial responsibility of land distribution. While not directly theological in this verse, the name contributes to the sense of a divinely ordered and trustworthy lineage chosen for a significant role.
* **Benjamin (Hebrew, _Binyāmîn_):** Meaning "son of the right hand" or "son of my strength," the tribe of Benjamin, though the smallest, held a significant place in Israel's history (e.g., the first king, Saul, was from Benjamin; later, Paul was from Benjamin). The naming of Elidad as "of the tribe of Benjamin" is not just an identifier but places him within a specific lineage with its own history, characteristics, and designated inheritance within the Promised Land. This tribal affiliation underscores the meticulous nature of the land division, ensuring each tribal entity received its due portion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of the tribe of Benjamin":** This introductory phrase immediately establishes the tribal affiliation of the individual to be named. It signifies that the following person, Elidad, is not just an arbitrary individual but a representative chosen specifically from and for the tribe of Benjamin. This highlights the structured and tribal-centric nature of the land distribution, where each of the twelve tribes was to receive its distinct inheritance, necessitating a representative from each.
* **"Elidad the son of Chislon":** This clause provides the specific identity of the appointed leader. "Elidad" is the individual's given name, and "the son of Chislon" provides his paternal lineage, a common and crucial method of identification in ancient Hebrew society. This precise naming underscores the divine attention to detail and accountability in the process. It is not just "a man" from Benjamin, but a specifically named individual, Elidad, whose identity is further confirmed by his father's name, Chislon, ensuring clarity and legitimacy in his role as a divinely sanctioned commissioner for the land division.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 34:21, though brief, employs several subtle literary devices. The primary device is **Listing**, as this verse is part of a larger catalog of divinely appointed leaders for the land division. This extensive listing throughout Numbers 34 (and other parts of the Pentateuch) serves to emphasize God's meticulousness and the divine order inherent in His plans. The repetition of the formula "Of the tribe of X, Y the son of Z" creates a rhythmic **Parallelism** that reinforces the systematic and comprehensive nature of the appointments. Furthermore, the inclusion of specific names and patronymics (e.g., "Elidad the son of Chislon") is a form of **Genealogy/Lineage**, which was paramount in ancient Israelite society for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and legitimacy, especially in matters of inheritance and leadership. This precise identification lends an air of **Verisimilitude** and historical authenticity to the narrative, grounding the divine decree in tangible, identifiable individuals. The very act of naming these commissioners also serves as a subtle form of **Foreshadowing**, signaling the imminent fulfillment of God's promise of land and the transition from wilderness wandering to settled inheritance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 34:21, though a simple listing, profoundly illustrates God's faithfulness and meticulousness in fulfilling His covenant promises. It reveals that God's grand plans are not vague aspirations but are executed with divine precision, involving specific individuals, detailed instructions, and an unwavering commitment to His word. The appointment of Elidad and others underscores that God works through human agents, empowering and commissioning them for His purposes. This divine orchestration ensures that the inheritance promised centuries ago to Abraham would be distributed justly and orderly, solidifying Israel's identity as a nation rooted in God's sovereign design. It also highlights the principle of stewardship, as these leaders were entrusted with the immense responsibility of allocating the divine inheritance.

* [Numbers 26:53](/numbers/26-53 "Numbers 26:53 - Land to be Divided by Lot") - "Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names."
* [Joshua 14:1](/joshua/14-1 "Joshua 14:1 - Land Divided by Eleazar, Joshua, and Tribal Heads") - "And these are the countries which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed for inheritance."
* [Psalm 78:55](/psalms/78-55 "Psalm 78:55 - God's Provision of Inheritance") - "He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 34:21, seemingly a dry administrative detail, offers rich insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order, precision, and faithfulness, meticulously overseeing even the smallest details of His grand redemptive plan. Just as Elidad was chosen for a specific, vital role in the distribution of Israel's physical inheritance, so too are believers today called to embrace their unique, divinely appointed roles within God's spiritual kingdom. We are all stewards of various gifts, resources, and responsibilities, whether in our families, churches, workplaces, or communities. This verse encourages us to recognize the significance of every task, no matter how seemingly mundane, when it contributes to God's overarching purposes. It challenges us to serve with the same diligence and integrity expected of Elidad, trusting that God's faithfulness will bring His promises to fruition in our lives and through our service. Our lives, like Israel's inheritance, are a gift from God, to be managed with wisdom and in accordance with His will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous planning in Numbers 34:21 encourage you about His oversight in your own life?**
* **In what areas of your life are you called to be a faithful steward, much like Elidad was for his tribe's inheritance?**
* **Do you recognize the significance of seemingly small or administrative tasks in contributing to God's larger purposes? How can you approach them with renewed purpose?**
* **How does the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel, as seen in the appointment of these leaders, strengthen your faith in His promises to you?**

### FAQ

**Why is such a seemingly minor detail, like a name, included in Scripture?**

Answer: The inclusion of specific names like Elidad and Chislon, even in what appears to be a mere administrative list, is highly significant for several reasons. First, it underscores the **historical authenticity and meticulous nature** of the biblical narrative. These are not generic figures but identifiable individuals, grounding the divine commands in real-world execution. Second, it highlights God's **attention to detail and divine order**. His plans are not vague but precise, involving specific people for specific tasks. This demonstrates His sovereignty over every aspect of His people's lives and their inheritance. Third, it emphasizes the **importance of individual responsibility and leadership** within God's larger plan. Elidad was not just a name; he was a divinely appointed commissioner with a crucial role in ensuring the equitable distribution of the Promised Land, a foundational event for the nation of Israel. This detail reminds us that every person, even those in seemingly administrative roles, plays a part in God's unfolding purposes, as seen throughout the detailed instructions for the tabernacle or the Levitical service in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") and [Numbers 3](/numbers/3 "Numbers 3 - The Duties of the Levites").

**What was the specific role of Elidad and the other appointed leaders?**

Answer: Elidad, along with the other eleven tribal leaders named in [Numbers 34:19-29](/numbers/34 "Numbers 34 - Boundaries of Canaan and Commissioners for Land Division"), was appointed as a commissioner responsible for overseeing the precise and equitable distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. This was not a ceremonial role but a highly practical and administrative one. They were to work alongside Eleazar the priest and Joshua, the new leader, to ensure that the land was divided by lot, as commanded by God in [Numbers 26:53-56](/numbers/26-53 "Numbers 26:53-56 - Land Division by Lot"). Their responsibilities would have included surveying the land, resolving disputes, and ensuring that each tribe received its designated inheritance according to the divine instructions. This was a critical task for establishing the nation of Israel in its new homeland, ensuring order, justice, and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

**Does this verse have any relevance for Christians today?**

Answer: Absolutely. While Numbers 34:21 details an administrative act in ancient Israel, its underlying principles offer profound relevance for Christians today. It speaks to God's **faithfulness** in fulfilling His promises, reminding us that if God was meticulous in providing a physical inheritance for Israel, He is certainly faithful to provide for our spiritual inheritance in Christ. It highlights the importance of **divine order and specific roles** within God's kingdom; just as Elidad had a unique task, every believer is gifted and called to serve God in specific ways within the body of Christ, as emphasized in [1 Corinthians 12:4-7](/1_corinthians/12-4 "1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - Diversity of Gifts, Unity in the Spirit"). Furthermore, it underscores the principle of **stewardship**—Elidad was a steward of Israel's land, and we are called to be faithful stewards of the blessings, resources, and spiritual gifts God has entrusted to us, whether in our personal lives, families, or the church, as encouraged in [1 Peter 4:10](/1_peter/4-10 "1 Peter 4:10 - Good Stewards of God's Grace"). The verse ultimately points to a God who cares about details and ensures His purposes are perfectly executed.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 34:21 specifically names Elidad as a commissioner for the division of the earthly inheritance of Benjamin, it subtly points forward to the ultimate "Son of the Right Hand" and the true inheritance found in Christ. The very act of meticulously dividing a promised land foreshadows the spiritual inheritance and rest that believers receive through Jesus. Just as Elidad was a divinely appointed leader to bring Israel into their physical possession, Christ is the ultimate divinely appointed leader, the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), who leads His people into their eternal spiritual inheritance. The earthly land of Canaan, though a significant fulfillment of God's promise, was but a shadow of the greater, heavenly reality. Through Christ, believers are granted an "inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fades not away, reserved in heaven" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Incorruptible Inheritance")). He is the one who establishes the true divine order, not just over a piece of land, but over all creation, bringing ultimate peace and rest to those who trust in Him ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). The detailed planning and faithful execution seen in Numbers 34 find their ultimate culmination in the perfect, redemptive work of Jesus, who secures for His people a spiritual kingdom and an eternal dwelling far surpassing any earthly territory ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 68:27

There [is] little Benjamin [with] their ruler, the princes of Judah [and] their council, the princes of Zebulun, [and] the princes of Naphtali.

Genesis 49:27

Benjamin shall ravin [as] a wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil.