### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Ben-Chayil**, represented by `{{H1134}}`, literally means **son of might**. It is derived from the words for "son" and "might." This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific Israelite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H1134}}` is in the historical account of King Jehoshaphat's reign. In the third year of his reign, the king sent a group of his princes to carry out a special mission. Ben-hail was one of these chosen princes, dispatched alongside Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethaneel, and Michaiah, with the specific purpose to teach in the cities of Judah [[2 Chronicles 17:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage provide a fuller context for Ben-hail's mission:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person... prince): This word identifies Ben-hail's official rank as one of the king's **princes**, a head person entrusted with significant authority and responsibility [[2 Chronicles 17:7]].
* `{{H3925}}` **lâmad** (to teach): This term defines the central action of the mission. The princes were sent not for military or administrative tasks, but specifically to **teach** the people [[2 Chronicles 17:7]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This word describes the king's initiative. Jehoshaphat actively **sent** his officials, commissioning them for this task. God also **sent** his word to heal his people [[Psalms 107:20]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (celebrated; Jehudah... or Judah): This specifies the territory where the teaching campaign took place, the land of **Judah**. This region was the focal point of God's covenant and promises [[Genesis 49:10]].
### Theological Significance
Though Ben-hail is mentioned only once, his role is part of a moment with significant theological weight.
* **Royal Mandate for Instruction:** Ben-hail was a civic leader, a **prince**, sent by the king to fulfill a spiritual duty. This demonstrates a righteous ruler's responsibility to ensure the people are taught God's ways [[2 Chronicles 17:7]].
* **Commissioned Teaching:** The group was explicitly sent **to teach** `{{H3925}}`. This act underscores the importance of actively disseminating divine knowledge as a foundation for national well-being, a theme echoed when David asks God, "teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation" [[Psalms 25:5]].
* **Collaborative Ministry:** Ben-hail was not sent alone but as part of a team of princes. This highlights a collective effort, where multiple leaders worked together to bring instruction to all the cities of Judah [[2 Chronicles 17:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1134}}` refers to Ben-hail, an individual whose name means "son of might." His singular mention in scripture is not minor; it places him as a key figure in a national campaign of religious education initiated by King Jehoshaphat. He serves as an example of a civic leader using his royally-appointed authority to participate in the spiritual instruction and restoration of the nation of Judah.
TRV