Deuteronomy 33:12 - Moses Blesses the Twelve Tribes
Concerning Benjamin he said:
This phrase introduces the blessing given to the tribe of Benjamin by Moses. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his tribe held a unique position among the tribes of Israel. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin was known for its warriors and played a significant role in Israel's history, including the establishment of the first king, Saul, who was from this tribe. The blessing reflects the special favor and protection Benjamin receives from God.
May the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him;
The term "beloved of the LORD" signifies a deep, personal affection from God towards Benjamin. This phrase emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and the tribe, suggesting a special status among the tribes of Israel. The idea of resting secure in God implies a state of peace and safety, highlighting God's protective nature. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of God as a refuge and fortress, as seen in Psalms 91:1-2.
God shields him all day long,
This part of the blessing underscores God's continuous protection over Benjamin. The imagery of a shield is common in biblical literature, symbolizing defense and safety. It suggests that God's protection is not temporary but constant, providing assurance against any threats. This aligns with the promises found in other scriptures, such as Psalm 121:5-8, where God is described as the keeper and protector of His people.
and upon His shoulders he rests.
The imagery of resting upon God's shoulders conveys a sense of care and support. It suggests that Benjamin is carried by God, much like a shepherd carries a lamb, indicating both protection and guidance. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who is often depicted as the Good Shepherd in the New Testament (John 10:11), carrying and caring for His flock. The phrase also evokes the image of a father carrying a child, emphasizing the closeness and trust in the relationship between God and Benjamin.
Persons / Places / Events
1. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and the ancestor of the tribe of Benjamin. Known for being favored and beloved, Benjamin's tribe held a special place among the Israelites.
2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who delivered the blessings to the tribes of Israel before his death. Deuteronomy 33 contains his final blessings to the tribes.
3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is depicted as a protector and source of security for His people.
4. Israel
The nation consisting of the twelve tribes, including Benjamin, to whom Moses is speaking.
5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter under Joshua's leadership. The blessings are given in anticipation of their settlement there.
Teaching Points
God's Protection and Security
The verse emphasizes God's protective nature, likening His care to a shield. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is their constant protector.
Intimacy with God
The imagery of resting between God's shoulders suggests a close, intimate relationship. Christians are encouraged to cultivate a personal and loving relationship with God.
Being Beloved by God
Just as Benjamin is called the beloved of the LORD, believers are reminded of their identity as beloved children of God, which should influence their self-worth and actions.
Trust in God's Presence
The assurance of God's presence "all day long" encourages believers to trust in His constant companionship and guidance in their daily lives.
Rest in God's Care
The concept of resting in God’s care invites believers to find peace and rest in Him, especially amidst life's challenges and uncertainties.
(12) And of Benjamin.--It is generally agreed that this blessing points to the site of the place which Jehovah chose out of all the tribes of Israel, Jerusalem, in the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew is divided thus:--
"Unto Benjamin he said. Beloved of Jehovah!
He (Jehovah) will dwell in security upon him,
Covering him over all the day.
And between his shoulders (mountain slopes) He
hath taken up His abode."
Verse 12. - Benjamin, the beloved of his father, is also the beloved of the Lord, and would be cared for and protected by him. Shall dwell in safety by him; shall dwell securely upon him, i.e. resting on him. Shall cover him. The word rendered "cover" (חַפַפ) occurs only here; construed with עַל, upon, it conveys the idea of sheltering: he continually is sheltering him. And he shall dwell between his shoulders. "To be between the shoulders" is to be carried on the back (cf. 1 Samuel 17:6); and as a father might thus bear his child, so should Benjamin be borne of the Lord. There can be no doubt that Benjamin is the subject of this clause; to understand it of Jehovah dwelling on the shoulders of Benjamin, in the sense of having the temple, the place of his rest, within the territory of Benjamin, is too violent and far-fetched an interpretation to be admitted. In the change of subject in the three clauses of this verse, there is nothing strange, since such a change repeatedly occurs, and is found even in prose, as e.g., 2 Samuel 11:13. "To dwell upon God, and between his shoulders, means as much as to lean upon him; the similitude being taken from fathers who carry their sons while yet small and tender" (Calvin). Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Concerning Benjamin
לְבִנְיָמִ֣ן (lə·ḇin·yā·min)
Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1144: Benjamin -- 'son of the right hand', youngest son of Jacob, also the name of two other Israelites
he said:
אָמַ֔ר (’ā·mar)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say
“May the beloved
יְדִ֣יד (yə·ḏîḏ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3039: Beloved
of the LORD
יְהֹוָ֔ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel
rest
יִשְׁכֹּ֥ן (yiš·kōn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7931: To settle down, abide, dwell
secure
לָבֶ֖טַח (lā·ḇe·ṭaḥ)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 983: A place of refuge, safety, safely
in Him;
עָלָ֑יו (‘ā·lāw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against
[God] shields
חֹפֵ֤ף (ḥō·p̄êp̄)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 2653: To enclose, surround, cover
him
עָלָיו֙ (‘ā·lāw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against
all
כָּל־ (kāl-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every
day long,
הַיּ֔וֹם (hay·yō·wm)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3117: A day
and upon His shoulders
כְּתֵיפָ֖יו (kə·ṯê·p̄āw)
Noun - feminine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 3802: The shoulder, side-piece, lateral projection of anything
he rests.”
שָׁכֵֽן׃ (šā·ḵên)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7931: To settle down, abide, dwell
Links
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Deuteronomy 33:12 Biblia Paralela
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Deuteronomy 33:12 Catholic BibleOT Law: Deuteronomy 33:12 Of Benjamin he said The beloved (Deut. De Du)