Abidan, whose name means “my father is judge,” was a distinguished leader and military commander from the Tribe of Benjamin during the critical time of the Exodus and the wilderness wandering of the children of Israel. He is one of the twelve tribal princes chosen by God to represent the entire congregation.
The Prince of Benjamin
Abidan is primarily known through the Book of Numbers, where he is repeatedly identified as the appointed head of his tribe.
- His Lineage: He is known as Abidan the son of Gideoni, marking him as the principal leader, or “prince,” of the tribe of Benjamin. This appointment came directly from the Lord and Moses, indicating a position of great responsibility and trust in the newly organized nation of Israel.
“Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.” (Numbers 1:11, KJV)
- Tribal Commander: Abidan’s role was not merely ceremonial; he was the leader of the Benjaminite forces as they traveled and camped in the wilderness. His command ensured the order and security of his tribal “host” within the massive Israelite community.
“And over the host of the tribe of the children of Benjamin was Abidan the son of Gideoni.” (Numbers 10:24, KJV)
Role in the Tabernacle’s Dedication
Abidan’s most prominent actions are recorded during the dedication of the Tabernacle, or “House of the Lord,” which was set up in the Wilderness of Sinai.
- The Offering on the Ninth Day: After the Tabernacle was anointed and sanctified, the princes of Israel, one by one, brought their offerings for the dedication of the altar. Abidan was the prince whose turn came on the ninth day of the twelve-day ceremony.
“On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin, offered:” (Numbers 7:60, KJV)
- A Unified Offering: Like all the other tribal leaders, Abidan’s offering was a lavish and uniform contribution, symbolizing the equality of the tribes before God and their shared commitment to the newly established worship system. His gifts included precious metals, incense, and various animals for sacrifice:
“His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering: One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense: One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering: One kid of the goats for a sin offering: And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Abidan the son of Gideoni.” (Numbers 7:61–65, KJV)
Abidan’s service, though briefly described, highlights the importance of divinely appointed and faithful leadership in the early foundation of God’s covenant people.