Reuben in Abrahamic Traditions
Etymology and Names
- Hebrew: רְאוּבֵן (Reuben)
- Arabic: روبيل (Rūbīl)
- Turkish: Ruben
The name “Reuben” is derived from Hebrew roots רָאָה (ra’ah), meaning “to see,” and בֵּן (ben), meaning “son,” thus forming the meaning “behold, a son” or “See, a son.”
Scriptural References
Hebrew Bible (Tanakh)
Reuben is prominently introduced as Jacob’s first-born son. His significance and actions are recorded in various passages within the Book of Genesis, detailing his role and interactions with his siblings.
Qur’an
Reuben, though not explicitly named, is inferred within the Qur’anic narrative. Specifically, in Surah Yusuf (Chapter 12, verse 10), the advice given to throw Joseph into the well instead of killing him is often attributed to Reuben:
“A speaker from amongst them said, ‘Slay not Joseph, but throw him into the bottom of the pit; some of the travellers may pick him up.’”
Commentators like Al-Baidawi suggest this speaker could be either Yahūẕā (Judah) or Rūbīl (Reuben).
Historical and Cultural Context
Reuben’s story reflects broader themes in Abrahamic traditions surrounding familial relationships, betrayal, and repentance. His influence extends beyond scriptural accounts to interpretations by historians and scholars like Josephus, who termed him “Roubel” and interpreted his name as the “pity of God” (Antiquities of the Jews, Book I, Chapter 19).
Books for Further Studies
- “The Legends of the Jews” by Louis Ginzberg
- “Josephus: The Complete Works” translated by William Whiston
- “Qur’anic Commentary (Tafsir) by Al-Baidawi” translated by E.C. Pritchett
- “The Chosen Few: How Education Shaped Jewish History, 70-1492” by Maristella Botticini and Zvi Eckstein
Takeaways
- Reuben’s Role: First-born son of Jacob, seen as a figure of compassion and a moral voice among his brothers.
- Cultural Variations: His name and character vary slightly within Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions but carry a critical ethical undertone.
- Interpretational Flexibility: Reuben’s actions are often subject to various interpretations, emphasizing his complexity and the human aspect of scriptural characters.
Conclusion
Reuben is a pivotal figure within the Abrahamic faiths, embodying the nuanced interplay of familial duty, moral decision-making, and divine grace. Through both Hebrew and Islamic texts, Reuben emerges as a relatable and instructive character, offering insights into themes of compassion and ethical action.
For a deeper understanding, the cited literature and commentaries offer comprehensive perspectives and contextual analysis of Reuben’s life and legacy.
