Gera
Gera in the Bible — (grand?)son of Benjamin (GEN 46:21), son of Bela (1CH 8:3). Gera belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “pilgrimage, combat; dispute”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Benjamin
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Gera was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin, identified as a (grand?)son of Benjamin through his father Bela. He is listed among the sons of Israel who went to Egypt, marking him as part of the ancestral lineage that entered Egypt during the patriarchal period. His inclusion in the genealogical records highlights his place within the Benjaminite family line.
Names & Titles
The name Gera is a proper name, possibly meaning 'sojourner.' This meaning may reflect the historical context of his family’s migration to Egypt, though the name itself was not given directly by God.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Gera as a son of Benjamin, through Bela. Beyond this, no additional family relationships are documented in the biblical text provided.
Significance
Gera’s significance lies in his connection to the tribe of Benjamin and his role within the broader narrative of Israel’s descent into Egypt. As a listed descendant who accompanied Israel to Egypt, he represents part of the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham regarding the multiplication of his descendants. His presence in the genealogical lists underscores the continuity of the Benjaminite lineage during a critical period in Israel’s history.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- גֵּרָ֥א
- Transliteration
- gera
- Meaning
- [perhaps] sojourner
- Greek
- Γηρα
- Reference
- GEN 46:21
- Strong's
- H1617
Family & Relationships (1)
son
Notes
from the list of "sons of Israel" who "went to Egypt" (GEN 46:8-27)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gera in the Bible?
Gera was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin, identified as a (grand?)son of Benjamin through his father Bela. He is listed among the sons of Israel who went to Egypt, marking him as part of the ancestral lineage that entered Egypt during the patriarchal period. His inclusion in the genealogical records highlights his place within the Benjaminite family line.
What does the name Gera mean?
The name Gera means “pilgrimage, combat; dispute” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.