Ben-hail
Who was Ben-hail in the Bible?
An official of King Jehoshaphat who was sent to teach the Law of the Lord throughout the cities of Judah during the Divided Monarchy.
Ben-hail was a prominent official in the service of King Jehoshaphat of Judah during the 9th century BC. His name in Hebrew means 'Son of Strength' or 'Son of Might,' reflecting a status of nobility or military distinction within the Judean court.
He is specifically recorded in the biblical narrative as one of the leaders chosen to spearhead a nationwide educational reform. This initiative was designed to solidify the religious and social foundations of the Southern Kingdom by ensuring the populace was well-versed in the Mosaic Law.
Background and Family
The biblical record concerning Ben-hail is concise, appearing exclusively in the book of 2 Chronicles. There is no mention of his lineage, tribe, or specific family ties within the text. However, his inclusion in a list of 'officials' (Hebrew: sarim) suggests he held a high-ranking administrative or military position under King Jehoshaphat. Given the era of the Divided Monarchy, such officials were essential to the stability of the Davidic line, serving as the executive arm of the king's domestic policies.
Major Life Events
Ben-hail’s primary contribution to the biblical history of Judah occurred in the third year of Jehoshaphat’s reign (c. 870 BC). During this time, the king initiated a major spiritual and judicial campaign. Ben-hail, along with four other officials—Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah—was commissioned to travel throughout the cities of Judah.
In the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent his officials Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah to teach in the cities of Judah. (2 Chronicles 17:7)
This delegation was unique because it paired civil officials like Ben-hail with Levites and priests. While the priests carried the scrolls of the Law, the presence of officials like Ben-hail provided the royal authority necessary to organize the people and emphasize the state's commitment to these religious reforms.
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Ben-hail is strictly associated with King Jehoshaphat, serving as one of the king's trusted subordinates. He worked in a collaborative capacity with the ecclesiastical leaders of the day, including the Levites Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, and others mentioned in the surrounding verses. There are no recorded personal interactions or genealogies linking him to other prominent figures of the Divided Monarchy.
Spiritual Significance
Though Ben-hail is a minor figure, his role illustrates the biblical ideal of civil leadership supporting spiritual education. In the Chronicler's view, the prosperity of Judah under Jehoshaphat was a direct result of the king's efforts to return the people to the Torah. Ben-hail represents the 'lay' leadership that facilitated this revival. His mission highlights a period where the secular and sacred offices of Judah worked in harmony to prevent the idolatry that frequently plagued the Divided Monarchy.
Ben-hail is significant for his participation in the first recorded state-sponsored itinerant teaching mission in the Bible. His role demonstrates that the maintenance of the covenant in Judah was not solely the responsibility of the priesthood, but also of the royal administration.
His inclusion in the text serves to validate Jehoshaphat's commitment to the Law. By sending men of high rank like Ben-hail, the king ensured that the instruction was received with the weight of governmental authority, contributing to the religious stability that characterized the early part of Jehoshaphat's reign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ben-hail mean?
The name Ben-hail is Hebrew for 'Son of Strength' or 'Son of Valor.'
When did Ben-hail live?
He lived during the Divided Monarchy, specifically during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah in the 9th century BC.
What was Ben-hail's job?
He was a high-ranking official (prince or leader) who was tasked by the king to teach the Law in the cities of Judah.
Is Ben-hail mentioned in the New Testament?
No, he is only mentioned once in the Old Testament, in the book of 2 Chronicles.
Who did Ben-hail travel with?
He traveled with four other officials (Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah), as well as several Levites and priests.
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 2 Chronicles1
Scripture References
All 1 indexed verse, in canonical order, from the Berean Standard Bible.
2 Chronicles · 1
- 2 Chronicles 17:7
In the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent his officials Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah to teach in the cities of Judah,