### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Binyâmîyn**, represented by `{{H1144}}`, is defined as "son of (the) right hand." It appears 161 times across 156 unique verses in the Bible. This name primarily refers to Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob, but also signifies the tribe descended from him and its allotted territory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1144}}` is used to identify a key individual, tribe, and territory. As an individual, he is the youngest son of Jacob, whose father renamed him from Benoni to **Benjamin** [[Genesis 35:18]]. He is uniquely Joseph's brother by the same mother, Rachel [[Genesis 43:29]]. As a tribe, Benjamin is frequently mentioned alongside other tribes of Israel, such as Judah, Ephraim, and Manasseh ([[Psalms 80:2]], [[2 Chronicles 31:1]]). The tribe is also known for its fierce warriors and its role in significant conflicts [[Judges 20:21]]. The territory of **Benjamin** included important cities and was a designated inheritance for the tribe's families [[Joshua 18:28]], with a gate in Jerusalem bearing its name [[Jeremiah 37:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the identity and role of `{{H1144}}`:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): As the base of Benjamin's name, this word is critical. It defines his identity as Jacob's youngest **son** [[Genesis 35:24]] and is used to refer to his descendants, "the children of **Benjamin**" [[Judges 20:13]].
* `{{H1145}}` **Ben-yᵉmîynîy** (a Benjaminite): This term specifically denotes a descendant of Benjamin. It is used to identify prominent figures, such as Saul, who describes himself as "a **Benjamite**, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel" [[1 Samuel 9:21]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (a brother): This word highlights kinship. Benjamin's identity is shaped by his relationship with his brothers, particularly Joseph [[Genesis 42:4]]. The other tribes of Israel refer to the Benjamites as their **brother** even during times of war [[Judges 20:23]].
* `{{H7626}}` **shêbeṭ** (tribe): This term defines Benjamin's position as one of the clans of Israel. The other tribes sent messengers through all the **tribe** of Benjamin during the conflict at Gibeah [[Judges 20:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1144}}` is demonstrated through prophecy, blessing, and its role in Israel's history.
* **Prophetic Destiny:** Jacob's final blessing characterizes the tribe's fierce nature, prophesying, "**Benjamin** shall ravin as a wolf" [[Genesis 49:27]], a trait seen later in their history.
* **Divine Favor:** In contrast, Moses' blessing describes a special relationship with God: "The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by him" [[Deuteronomy 33:12]], highlighting divine protection and closeness.
* **Royal Lineage:** The tribe of **Benjamin** produced the first king of Israel, as God instructed Samuel to anoint a man from the land of Benjamin to be captain over His people [[1 Samuel 9:16]].
* **Conflict and Repentance:** The tribe's conflict with the rest of Israel, and Israel's subsequent repentance "for **Benjamin** their brother," illustrates profound themes of sin, tribal discipline, and the struggle for unity within the covenant people [[Judges 21:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn** is a name rich with significance, extending far beyond its meaning of "son of the right hand." It identifies a beloved individual, a formidable tribe, and a strategic territory within Israel. From Jacob's prophetic characterization to Moses' blessing of divine favor, the name carries layers of meaning about both martial strength and covenantal security. The history of **Benjamin**—encompassing royalty, civil war, and promised restoration—serves as a microcosm for the larger story of Israel's trials, identity, and enduring place in God's plan.
TRV