Topical Encyclopedia Elizur, son of Shedeur, is recognized as a prominent leader within the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. His name, Elizur, can be interpreted to mean "God is my rock," reflecting a strong spiritual heritage and a connection to the divine strength that was a hallmark of Israelite identity.Biblical References: Elizur is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, where he is identified as a chief of the tribe of Reuben during the Israelites' wilderness journey. In Numbers 1:5, the LORD commands Moses to take a census of the entire Israelite community, and Elizur is appointed as the leader representing the tribe of Reuben: "These are the names of the men who are to assist you: from Reuben, Elizur son of Shedeur" (Numbers 1:5). Further, Elizur's role is reiterated in the organization of the camp of Israel. Numbers 2:10-11 states, "On the south side shall be the divisions of the camp of Reuben, under their standard, with the leader of the Reubenites being Elizur son of Shedeur. His division Numbers 46,500" . This passage highlights his leadership in the military organization of the Israelites, underscoring his responsibility and the trust placed in him by both God and Moses. Elizur also plays a part in the offerings made by the leaders of Israel at the dedication of the altar. Numbers 7:30-35 details the offerings brought by Elizur on behalf of the tribe of Reuben: "On the fourth day Elizur son of Shedeur, the leader of the Reubenites, drew near. His offering was one silver platter weighing 130 shekels and one silver basin weighing 70 shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering; one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering; one male goat for a sin offering; and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old, for the peace offering. This was the offering of Elizur son of Shedeur" . This passage illustrates his role in the religious life of the community, participating in the sacrificial system that was central to Israelite worship. Historical and Theological Context: As a leader of the tribe of Reuben, Elizur's position was significant in the socio-political structure of the Israelite confederation. The tribe of Reuben, being the descendants of Jacob's firstborn, held a place of honor and responsibility among the tribes of Israel. Elizur's leadership would have involved not only military and administrative duties but also spiritual oversight, ensuring that the tribe adhered to the covenantal laws given by God through Moses. Theologically, Elizur's role as a chief underscores the importance of divinely appointed leadership in the narrative of the Israelites. His participation in the dedication of the altar and the offerings signifies the communal and covenantal relationship between God and His people, with the leaders serving as representatives of their respective tribes. In summary, Elizur son of Shedeur stands as a figure of leadership and faithfulness within the tribe of Reuben, contributing to the collective journey of the Israelites as they moved towards the Promised Land. His legacy, as recorded in the Book of Numbers, reflects the broader themes of divine guidance, communal responsibility, and covenantal faithfulness that are central to the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 1:5And these are the names of the men that shall stand with you: of the tribe of Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 2:10 Numbers 7:30,35 Numbers 10:18 Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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