Benjamin (Hebrew: בִּנְיָמִין, Arabic: بنيامين)
Benjamin, known as בִּנְיָמִין in Hebrew and بنيامين (Binyāmīn) in Arabic, is a prominent figure in both Islamic and Jewish traditions.
Etymology
The name Benjamin in Hebrew (בִּנְיָמִין) translates to “son of the right hand” or “son of the south.” In Arabic, بنيامين (Binyāmīn) carries the same phonetic structure and meaning, showing the shared Semitic roots between these cultures and languages.
References in Islamic Texts
Although Benjamin is not directly mentioned by name in the Qur’an, he is referenced implicitly in the story of his brother Joseph (Yusuf). This story is found in Sūrah Yusuf (Chapter 12). One notable verse is:
<p>“And when they entered in unto Joseph, he took his brother (i.e., Benjamin) to stay with him. He said, ‘Verily I am thy brother, then take not that ill which they have been doing.’ And when he had equipped them with their equipment, he placed the drinking-cup in his brother’s pack.” (Qur’an 12:69)</p>
This verse describes the moment when Joseph, who had risen to a high position in Egypt, revealed his identity to Benjamin and orchestrated a plan to keep him close.
Significance in Islam
Benjamin’s significance in Islam is largely derived from his relationship with Joseph. The story highlights themes of familial love, loyalty, and divine justice, illustrating how integrity and faith in God’s plan can lead to eventual (and often miraculous) resolution of conflicts and hardships.
Though less central than figures like Moses or Abraham in Islamic discourse, Benjamin’s role is crucial in understanding the broader narrative of Prophet Joseph and the moral and spiritual lessons that can be drawn from it.
References in Jewish Tradition
In the Jewish tradition, Benjamin is one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Ya’qub) and the youngest, making him a part of the patriarchal figures of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. His storyline is more elaborate in the Hebrew Bible, intricately describing his birth, the death of his mother Rachel, and his prominent role in the narratives concerning his brothers and their relationship with Joseph.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Stories of the Prophets” (Qisas Al-Anbiya) by Ibn Kathir - Offers detailed accounts of the lives of Prophets in Islam, including references to Benjamin.
- “The History of al-Tabari Vol. 2: Prophets and Patriarchs” - A comprehensive historical text providing context and details about the lives of early prophetic figures.
- “Joseph: An Islamic Perspective” by Louay Fatoohi - Focuses on the story of Joseph, delving into the significance of the narrative in Islamic thought.
- “The Hebrew Bible in Islamic Scriptures” by Gordon Newby - Explores the intersections between the Hebrew Bible and Islamic texts, including stories like that of Benjamin and Joseph.
Takeaways and Conclusion
The figure of Benjamin, though less prominent directly in Islamic texts compared to Jewish scriptures, plays a crucial role in illustrating the interconnectedness of Abrahamic traditions. His story with Joseph in the Qur’an serves as a vehicle to impart essential moral and ethical teachings, emphasizing themes such as familial bonds and divine justice. Understanding Benjamin’s multi-faceted character and his portrayals across different religious texts enriches our comprehension of shared narratives and values in the Islamic and Jewish faiths.
