Kemuel, the son of Shiphtan, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. He is recognized as a leader from the tribe of Ephraim during the period of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. His role is particularly noted in the context of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel.

Biblical Reference:

Kemuel is mentioned in Numbers 34:24, which states: "And the leader from the tribe of the Ephraimites is Kemuel son of Shiphtan."

Role and Significance:

Kemuel's primary role, as outlined in the biblical narrative, was as a leader appointed to assist in the allocation of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes. This task was of great importance, as it involved the distribution of the inheritance promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land was to be carried out under the guidance of Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and one leader from each tribe, including Kemuel for the tribe of Ephraim.

The appointment of leaders like Kemuel underscores the organized and divinely ordained process by which the Israelites were to settle in the land of Canaan. It reflects the importance of leadership, order, and obedience to God's commands in the fulfillment of His promises to Israel.

Tribe of Ephraim:

The tribe of Ephraim, from which Kemuel hailed, was one of the prominent tribes of Israel. Ephraim was a son of Joseph, and the tribe held a significant position among the northern tribes. The tribe's territory was centrally located in the land of Canaan, which later became a crucial area in the history of Israel.

Historical and Theological Context:

Kemuel's mention in the Bible, though brief, is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. This period was marked by God's covenantal faithfulness and the establishment of Israel as a nation under His law. The division of the land was a fulfillment of God's promise to the patriarchs and a critical step in the establishment of Israel's national identity.

In the broader theological context, the role of leaders like Kemuel highlights the importance of faithful stewardship and the execution of God's plans through human agency. It serves as a reminder of the collaborative relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the biblical narrative.