Who Was Bela in the Bible?
Bela is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with three distinct individuals from different tribes and backgrounds. The name Bela, spelled בֶּלַע (Bela) in Hebrew, appears in the context of the tribe of Benjamin, the Edomite kingdom, and the tribe of Reuben. Each mention of Bela provides insights into the diverse historical and genealogical records of the Bible, reflecting the importance of lineage and tribal affiliations in ancient Israel. This article explores the three individuals named Bela, their roles in biblical history, and the lessons these stories offer to modern Christians.
Bela, Son of Benjamin
Biblical References and Lineage
The first Bela, also referred to as Belah in some translations like the King James Version, is mentioned as the eldest son of Benjamin, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. This Bela is listed in Genesis 46:21 among the family members who moved to Egypt during a time of famine. He is further mentioned in Numbers 26:38-40 and 1 Chronicles 7:6-7, 8:3, where his descendants, known as the Belaites, are listed. Bela’s lineage includes several notable figures, such as Ard, Naaman, and Abihud.
Significance in Israelite History
Bela, as the firstborn of Benjamin, played a significant role in the growth and establishment of the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe itself became one of the twelve tribes of Israel, with notable figures such as King Saul emerging from its ranks. The genealogical records, including those of Bela, highlight the importance of family heritage and tribal identity in Israelite society, serving as a reminder of God’s promises and blessings passed down through generations.
Bela, the Edomite King
Biblical References and Reign
Another individual named Bela is mentioned in the context of Edom, a kingdom descended from Esau, Jacob’s brother. This Bela, the son of Beor, is noted as an Edomite king in Genesis 36:32 and 1 Chronicles 1:43-44. His reign in the city of Dinhabah marks him as one of the early rulers in Edomite history. The Edomites were closely related to the Israelites, sharing a common ancestry through Isaac and Rebekah.
Theological Implications
The mention of Bela, the Edomite king, in the Bible serves to illustrate the broader narrative of God’s sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. Despite the often adversarial relationship between Israel and Edom, the inclusion of Edomite kings in the biblical record reflects God’s overarching plan and His governance over the history of all peoples. This is a reminder that God’s purposes extend beyond the boundaries of Israel and encompass all nations and peoples.
Bela, the Reubenite
Biblical References and Context
The third Bela is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 5:8 as a descendant of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob. This Bela’s lineage is briefly noted, emphasizing the tribal divisions and the genealogical records that were important for maintaining the identity and heritage of the Israelites. The tribe of Reuben, despite being the firstborn, lost its preeminence due to Reuben’s actions against his father, Jacob, as described in Genesis 35:22 and 49:3-4.
Lessons from Bela’s Lineage
The brief mention of Bela among the descendants of Reuben highlights the importance of individual and collective actions in shaping one’s legacy. Reuben’s tribe, though the firstborn, faced challenges and lost certain privileges due to Reuben’s indiscretions. This underscores the biblical principle that one’s actions have lasting consequences, a lesson that applies to both individuals and communities.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Heritage and Lineage
The stories of the three individuals named Bela emphasize the importance of heritage and lineage in the Bible. For modern Christians, these genealogical records serve as a reminder of the continuity of God’s promises and the importance of honoring one’s spiritual heritage. Just as the tribes of Israel valued their ancestral records, Christians are called to remember and honor their spiritual lineage, which is rooted in the faithfulness of God throughout generations.
God’s Sovereignty Over All Nations
The inclusion of an Edomite king named Bela in the biblical record highlights the theme of God’s sovereignty over all nations. This serves as a reminder that God’s plans and purposes are not limited to a single group of people but encompass all of humanity. This universal aspect of God’s sovereignty encourages Christians to have a broader perspective, recognizing that God’s love and grace extend to all people, regardless of their background or nationality.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The lineage of Bela, son of Benjamin, underscores God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. The growth and prosperity of Benjamin’s descendants reflect God’s covenant faithfulness. This same faithfulness is available to all believers today, assuring them that God keeps His promises and is involved in the details of their lives.
God’s Care for All People
The references to Bela, the Edomite king, and Bela, the Reubenite, remind believers that God’s care extends to all people, not just the chosen nation of Israel. This inclusive care is a testament to God’s love and concern for all humanity, encouraging Christians to emulate this love by caring for others and recognizing the value of every individual.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of God’s Promises
The genealogical emphasis in the Bible, including the records of individuals like Bela, ultimately points to Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus’ lineage, as recorded in the Gospels, ties together the diverse threads of Israel’s history, demonstrating that He is the promised Messiah who comes to save all people. This connection emphasizes the continuity of God’s redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.
Jesus’ Universal Lordship
The story of Bela, the Edomite king, highlights the theme of God’s sovereignty over all nations, a theme that finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ. As the King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus’ lordship extends over all creation, affirming that salvation and God’s kingdom are available to everyone, regardless of their ethnic or national background. This universal lordship calls Christians to share the message of the Gospel with all people, reflecting Jesus’ inclusive love and mission.
Conclusion
The three individuals named Bela in the Bible, spanning the tribes of Benjamin, Edom, and Reuben, offer a rich tapestry of lessons for modern Christians. Their stories highlight the importance of heritage, the sovereignty of God over all nations, and the lasting impact of individual and collective actions. These narratives, while distinct, collectively point to the faithfulness of God and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ. For believers today, the stories of Bela remind them of the continuity of God’s work throughout history and the inclusive nature of His love and salvation.