Joel יוֹאֵל
A Benjaminite leader in Jerusalem after the Exile
Who is Joel in the Bible?
Joel, son of Zichri, was a Benjaminite leader in Jerusalem during the post-exilic period following the Babylonian exile (Nehemiah 11:9). He served as the second-in-command to Judah, son of Hassenuah, who held the position of chief of the Benjaminites in the city. After the exiles returned and the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt, Nehemiah appointed various tribal leaders to repopulate and secure the holy city, and Joel's appointment reflected his prominence within the Benjaminite community. His role demonstrates the organized structure of leadership that was essential for Jerusalem's restoration and stability during this critical period of Jewish history.
Biography
Joel, the son of Zichri, is mentioned in Neh.11.9 as a leader of the Benjaminites who settled in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Following the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the city walls, Nehemiah organized the repopulation of Jerusalem. He appointed leaders from various tribes to reside in the holy city and help maintain its security and prosperity. Joel is identified as the second-in-command to Judah, the son of Hassenuah, who was the chief of the Benjaminites in Jerusalem. This leadership role indicates Joel's importance and responsibility within the Benjaminite community during the post-exilic period.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentNehemiah 1 verse
- Nehemiah 11:9
"Joel son of Zichri was the officer over them, and Judah son of Hassenuah was over the Second District of the city."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | יוֹאֵל | Joel , the name of twelve Israelites |