### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAshbêl**, represented by `{{H788}}`, refers to an Israelite person. Its base definition is **flowing**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily within genealogical lists that establish the lineage of the tribes of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H788}}` is consistently identified as one of the sons of Benjamin. The first mention lists **Ashbel** among the sons of **Benjamin** who came into Egypt [[Genesis 46:21]]. This lineage is restated in the chronicles, which specify that **Benjamin** **begat** Bela his firstborn, and **Ashbel** the second [[1 Chronicles 8:1]]. The name is also recorded in the census of the tribes in the wilderness, where it serves to identify a specific family unit: "the family of the Ashbelites" [[Numbers 26:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to place **ʼAshbêl** within its genealogical context:
* `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn** (son of (the) right hand; Binjamin): Ashbel is documented as a son of **Benjamin**, the youngest son of Jacob and founder of one of Israel's twelve tribes [[Genesis 46:21]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is used in the phrases "the sons of **Benjamin**" and "the sons of **Bela**," establishing the direct patriarchal relationships that define these lists ([[Genesis 46:21]], [[Numbers 26:38]]).
* `{{H1106}}` **Belaʻ** (Bela, the name of a place, also of an Edomite and of two Israelites; Bela.): He is listed as the firstborn son of Benjamin, making him Ashbel's older brother [[1 Chronicles 8:1]].
* `{{H789}}` **ʼAshbêlîy** (an Ashbelite (collectively) or descendant of Ashbel): This patronymic term identifies the descendants of **Ashbel** as a distinct family group within the tribe of Benjamin [[Numbers 26:38]].
### Theological Significance
While not a central figure in any narrative, the mention of `{{H788}}` carries significance within the biblical framework of lineage and inheritance.
* **Tribal Identity:** Ashbel's inclusion in the genealogies is crucial for establishing a specific family line within the tribe of **Benjamin** [[Genesis 46:21]]. These records were vital for affirming tribal identity and structure.
* **Foundation of a Family:** The name **Ashbel** gives rise to the **Ashbelites** `{{H789}}`, a recognized **family** `{{H4940}}` within Israel. This demonstrates the biblical pattern where an individual becomes the progenitor of a clan that forms part of the larger national census [[Numbers 26:38]].
* **Order of Birthright:** The specific mention of **Ashbel** as "the second" son of Benjamin establishes his place in the line of succession after his brother **Bela** the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}`, highlighting the importance of birth order in patriarchal genealogies [[1 Chronicles 8:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H788}}` **ʼAshbêl** is an individual whose primary role in scripture is to serve as a genealogical anchor. Though mentioned only briefly, he is a son of **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}` and the forefather of the **Ashbelites** `{{H789}}`. His presence in these key lists underscores the biblical emphasis on detailed lineage, tribal organization, and the continuity of the families that constituted the nation of Israel.
TRV