A Record in the Line of the Tribe of Asher
The chronicles of Israel, meticulously preserved in the Holy Scriptures, often present entire generations in a single verse, creating a powerful, enduring record of God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises. Bimhal is one such figure, a son of the tribe of Asher whose brief mention serves to affirm the unbroken chain of heritage leading to the ultimate fulfillment of prophecy.
The Sole Appearance of Bimhal in Scripture
The name of Bimhal is found only once in the King James Bible, amidst the detailed genealogies of the northern tribes recorded in the book of First Chronicles. This book, known for its emphasis on the royal line of David and the priestly records, ensures that the historical identity of all twelve tribes is preserved.
Bimhal is listed as one of the sons of Japhlet, who was a descendant of the patriarch Asher:
“And the sons of Japhlet; Pasach, and Bimhal, and Ashvath. These are the children of Japhlet.” (1 Chronicles 7:33, KJV)
This simple verse places Bimhal squarely in the lineage of Asher, one of the original sons of Jacob, whose territory lay in the fertile coastal plain of northern Israel. The inclusion of his name validates the existence and continuation of his family line within the greater structure of the nation of Israel.
The Significance of a Name: A Lesson in Consecration
Though we know nothing of Bimhal’s personal deeds or accomplishments, his name itself often carries a profound meaning that can illuminate the spiritual legacy of his family. The Hebrew name Bimhal ($\text{בִּמְהָל}$, Bimhâl) is interpreted by scholars to mean “with pruning,” or possibly “son of circumcision” or “in weakness (by mixture).”
- “Son of Circumcision/With Pruning”: This interpretation points to a life marked by the covenant sign of circumcision. It symbolizes consecration and the cutting away of the flesh, reminding us that being part of God’s people requires a continuous separation from the world and a submission to the divine standard—a crucial theme for any Defence of the Truth.
- Genealogical Purpose: Primarily, the mention of Bimhal and his brothers underscores the accuracy of the Israelite census and tribal records. These records were not merely historical documents; they served to establish inheritance rights and maintain tribal identity, ensuring that the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob could be tracked and confirmed across the centuries.
A Reflection on the Faithful and the Lord’s Return
In the context of the Lord’s Return, the genealogical records serve as a powerful metaphor. The Christian hope is not built upon fleeting sentiment but upon the unwavering historical promises of God, meticulously documented from Adam to the coming of Christ, and onward to His second advent.
Figures like Bimhal, though they stand only for a line in a long list, represent the countless individuals who simply remained in their place within the covenant structure. They fulfilled their duty by living, marrying, and raising children in the faith, thereby preserving the holy line that was necessary for the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.
The lesson of Bimhal is one of faithful obedience in obscurity. The work of preparing for the Lord’s Return—your core mission at TheLordsReturn.com—is not just for the prophets and leaders but for every believer who quietly holds fast to the truth, confirming the lineage of faith by their steadfast testimony.