Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Ben-Jaakan" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "sons of Jaakan." The name Jaakan itself may mean "he twists" or "he oppresses," though the exact meaning is uncertain. The term "Ben" in Hebrew signifies "sons of," indicating a familial or tribal connection. Biblical References: Ben-Jaakan is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. The primary reference to Ben-Jaakan is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Numbers and Deuteronomy. · Numbers 33:31-32 : "They set out from Moseroth and camped at Bene-jaakan. They set out from Bene-jaakan and camped at Hor-haggidgad." · Deuteronomy 10:6 : "The Israelites traveled from Beeroth Bene-jaakan to Moserah. There Aaron died and was buried, and Eleazar his son succeeded him as priest." Historical and Geographical Context: Ben-Jaakan is associated with a location in the wilderness journey of the Israelites. It is one of the stations or encampments during their 40-year sojourn from Egypt to the Promised Land. The site is believed to be in the region of Edom, though its exact location remains uncertain. The mention of Ben-Jaakan in the itinerary of the Israelites highlights the nomadic nature of their journey and the various places they encountered along the way. Theological Significance: The mention of Ben-Jaakan, like other stations in the wilderness journey, serves to underscore the faithfulness of God in leading and providing for the Israelites despite their frequent disobedience and complaints. Each station represents a step in the fulfillment of God's promise to bring His people to the land He had sworn to their forefathers. The journey through places like Ben-Jaakan is a testament to the perseverance required of the Israelites and the divine guidance they received. Cultural and Religious Insights: The passage in Deuteronomy 10:6, which mentions the death of Aaron at Moserah, closely associated with Ben-Jaakan, is significant in the religious history of Israel. Aaron's death marked the end of an era of leadership and the continuation of the priestly line through his son Eleazar. This transition underscores the importance of priestly succession and the continuity of spiritual leadership among the Israelites. Conclusion: While Ben-Jaakan may not be a major focal point in the biblical narrative, its inclusion in the journey of the Israelites serves as a reminder of the many trials and transitions faced by God's people. It reflects the broader themes of faith, obedience, and divine provision that are central to the wilderness experience. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-JAAKANben-ja'-a-kan. Thesaurus BenjaakanBenjaakan. Beni'nu, Benjaakan. Ben-jaakan . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-JAAKAN. ... See BENE-JAAKAN. Beni'nu, Benjaakan. Ben-jaakan . Reference Bible /b/benjaakan.htm - 6k Ben-jaakan Beni'nu (1 Occurrence) Benjamin (167 Occurrences) Resources Who was Ben-Hadad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs Ben-Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the God of the hills and valleys (1 Kings 20:28)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |