Becher
Becher the Son of Benjamin
The most prominent Becher in Scripture is listed as a son of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. He appears in the genealogy of Genesis 46:14, which records the family of Jacob as they journeyed to Egypt during the famine. Becher is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:6-8, where his descendants are listed in detail. According to the Chronicler, Becher's sons included Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth. The total number of mighty warriors counted among his descendants was 20,200, indicating that Becher's family became a significant military force within the tribe of Benjamin.
Becher the Son of Ephraim
A second Becher appears as a son of Ephraim in Numbers 26:35, where his family is called the Becherites. This Becher may be the same person called Bered in 1 Chronicles 7:20. The variation in names likely reflects different textual traditions or scribal variations that developed over centuries of manuscript transmission. The Becherites constituted one of the recognized clans of Ephraim, playing a role in the tribal structure during the wilderness period and the settlement of Canaan.
The Meaning of the Name
The name Becher means "firstborn" in Hebrew, which is significant given the importance of firstborn status in ancient Israelite culture. The firstborn typically received a double portion of inheritance and held a position of leadership within the family (Deuteronomy 21:17). However, the biblical narrative frequently subverts expectations about the firstborn, as seen with Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25:23) or with Ephraim being blessed over Manasseh (Genesis 48:19-20).
Tribal Significance
Becher's descendants played important roles within the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin, though the smallest of Israel's tribes, produced significant leaders including King Saul (1 Samuel 9:1-2) and the apostle Paul (Philippians 3:5). The detailed genealogical records in 1 Chronicles reflect the post-exilic community's concern with preserving tribal identity and establishing legitimate claims to land and priestly service. The mention of 20,200 warriors among Becher's descendants underscores Benjamin's reputation as a tribe of skilled fighters (Judges 20:15-16).
Legacy in Israel's Story
While Becher himself is not the subject of any narrative in Scripture, his inclusion in multiple genealogical lists demonstrates the biblical emphasis on family lineage and covenant continuity. These genealogies served practical purposes in ancient Israel, determining inheritance rights, military obligations, and participation in worship. They also carried theological weight, tracing God's faithfulness through generations and connecting individual families to the larger story of God's people.
Biblical Context
Becher appears in three key genealogical passages. As a son of Benjamin, he is listed in Genesis 46:21 among those who went to Egypt with Jacob and in 1 Chronicles 7:6-8 with detailed descendants. As a son of Ephraim, he appears in Numbers 26:35 where his family is called the Becherites. The parallel passage in 1 Chronicles 7:20 uses the variant name Bered.
Theological Significance
Becher's genealogies reflect the biblical theme of God's faithfulness across generations. The detailed record of descendants and warriors demonstrates how God multiplied Abraham's seed as promised. The name 'firstborn' also connects to the broader biblical motif of firstborn status and its frequent subversion in God's sovereign purposes.
Historical Background
Ancient Israelite genealogies served critical social functions including determining inheritance, military service, and tribal identity. The tribe of Benjamin occupied territory between Judah and Ephraim and was known for its warriors. Post-exilic genealogical records in Chronicles were compiled to help returning exiles establish their heritage and tribal affiliations after the Babylonian captivity.