King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:11 Mean?

Numbers 1:11 in the King James Version says “Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.”

Numbers 1:11 · KJV

Context

9

Of Zebulun; Eliab the son of Helon.

10

Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim; Elishama the son of Ammihud: of Manasseh; Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

11

Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.

12

Of Dan; Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.

13

Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran.

Read Numbers 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and brother of Joseph, receives equal representation despite his small size (the tribe would later be known as 'little Benjamin,' Psalm 68:27). This demonstrates that in God's economy, age, size, and human prominence do not determine spiritual significance. Benjamin's later production of King Saul and the apostle Paul shows how God uses even the smallest tribes for crucial purposes in redemptive history.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Benjamin was Rachel's second son, born as she died (Genesis 35:18). The tribe remained loyal to Judah when the kingdom divided, forming the core of the southern kingdom alongside Judah. Paul later identified himself as 'of the tribe of Benjamin' (Philippians 3:5).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Benjamin's small size yet significant role challenge assumptions about what God can do through seemingly weak instruments?
  2. What does Paul's identification with Benjamin teach us about the enduring significance of covenant identity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
לְבִ֨נְיָמִ֔ן1 of 4

“Of Benjamin”

H1144

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

אֲבִידָ֖ן2 of 4

“Abidan”

H27

abidan, an israelite

בֶּן3 of 4

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

גִּדְעֹנִֽי׃4 of 4

“of Gideoni”

H1441

gidoni, an israelite

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 1:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 1:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 7:60Numbers 10:24Numbers 2:22

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 1 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes