Benjamin
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Role: Youngest son of Jacob, full brother of Joseph, father of the tribe of Benjamin
- Family: Son of Jacob and Rachel, brother of Joseph
- Key Books: Genesis
Biography
Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, born during the journey from Bethel to Ephrathah (Bethlehem). His mother Rachel died giving birth to him, and he was originally named “Ben-oni” (son of my sorrow), but Jacob renamed him “Benjamin” (son of my right hand).
Benjamin was the only full brother of Joseph — both were Rachel’s sons. This made him Jacob’s most treasured child after Joseph disappeared. When famine struck, Jacob refused to let Benjamin go to Egypt with his brothers, only agreeing when food ran out.
In Egypt, Benjamin was used as bait by Joseph to test his brothers’ loyalty. Unlike the first time when they sold Joseph, the brothers now defended Benjamin with their lives — showing their transformation. Benjamin remained in Egypt with the family during the famine years.
Key Events
- Born as Rachel died
- Kept from going to Egypt by Jacob
- Used as test by Joseph
- Remained in Egypt with family
Relationships
Important Verses
- “And it came to pass, when she was in her hardships, that she said, Be not afraid; for I now bring a child into the world. And when she had let go of her soul (for she died), she called his name Ben-oni: but his father called him Benjamin.” — Genesis 35:18-18
Cross-References
- Romans 11:1 — “I also am an Israelite, of the tribe of Benjamin” — Paul
- Philippians 3:5 — Paul identifies as Benjaminite
- Hebrews 7:14 — Melchizedek from Benjamin (tradition)
- Exodus — Tribe of Benjamin, fierce warriors, Saul’s tribe