Exodus 1:4

Letters to the Faithful - Exodus 1:4

Berean Standard Bible

Dan and Naphtali; Gad and Asher.

King James Bible

Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.

Hebrew Text:

דָּ֥ן וְנַפְתָּלִ֖י גָּ֥ד וְאָשֵֽׁר׃

Transliteration:

Dan ve-Naftali, Gad ve-Asher.

--------------------------------

Dan and Naphtali;

Dan and Naphtali were two of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the sons of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Dan, the fifth son of Jacob, is often associated with judgment, as his name means "judge." The tribe of Dan later settled in the northern part of Israel, near the Mediterranean Sea. This location made them vulnerable to idolatry, as seen in Judges 18, where they set up a carved image. Naphtali, the sixth son, is associated with freedom and swiftness, as his name means "my struggle" or "wrestling." The tribe of Naphtali settled in the fertile region of Galilee, which later became significant in the ministry of Jesus Christ, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 9:1-2) about a great light shining in Galilee.

Gad and Asher.

Gad and Asher were also sons of Jacob, born to Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Gad, the seventh son, is linked to fortune or a troop, as his name means "good fortune" or "troop." The tribe of Gad settled east of the Jordan River, in a region known for its pastures, which suited their lifestyle as herdsmen. This area was often a frontline in battles, requiring the Gadites to be strong warriors, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:8. Asher, the eighth son, means "happy" or "blessed." The tribe of Asher settled along the northern coast of Canaan, an area rich in olive oil production, which is reflected in Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:20. The prosperity of Asher is seen as a type of the spiritual blessings found in Christ, who provides abundantly for His people.

--------------------------------------

And Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher (Exodus 1:4). This verse, nestled within the opening chapter of Exodus, forms a continuation of the genealogical record of Jacob’s sons who journeyed to Egypt, a succinct yet profound enumeration that bridges the patriarchal narratives of Genesis with the redemptive saga of Israel’s deliverance. In its brevity, it carries weighty significance, anchoring the identity of God’s chosen people in their tribal origins and foreshadowing the divine purpose that will unfold through their multiplication and eventual liberation. The names listed—Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher—are not mere markers of lineage but emblems of divine promise, testifying to God’s faithfulness in preserving and prospering His covenant people amidst the crucible of Egyptian sojourn.

The context of Exodus 1:4 is the enumeration of Jacob’s sons, begun in the preceding verses, who came to Egypt with their father during the time of famine, as recounted in Genesis. The verse follows the mention of Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah in verse 2, and Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin in verse 3, completing the roster of the sons of Jacob, save for Joseph, who was already in Egypt, and whose presence is noted separately. The deliberate listing of these names serves a theological purpose, grounding the narrative in the historical reality of Israel’s origins. Each name represents not only an individual but a tribe, a future inheritance, and a segment of the covenant community through which God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be fulfilled. The inclusion of Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher, sons born to Jacob through his concubines Zilpah and Bilhah, underscores the inclusivity of God’s covenant, embracing even those born of secondary wives within the patriarchal household.

The significance of these four names—Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher—extends beyond their immediate genealogical function. In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were not mere records but declarations of identity, legitimacy, and divine favor. Dan, meaning “he has judged,” evokes the idea of divine justice, as Rachel named him in hope that God had judged her cause favorably in granting her a son through Bilhah. Naphtali, meaning “my wrestling,” reflects Rachel’s struggle and triumph in her rivalry with Leah, yet also points to the future vigor of his tribe. Gad, meaning “fortune” or “troop,” born to Zilpah, carries connotations of divine blessing and strength, while Asher, meaning “happy” or “blessed,” signifies the joy and prosperity promised to his descendants. These names, rooted in the personal and spiritual experiences of the patriarchs, are woven into the fabric of Israel’s identity, each tribe bearing a unique role in the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.

The placement of this verse within the broader narrative of Exodus 1 is telling, for it immediately precedes the account of Israel’s multiplication and the subsequent oppression by the Egyptians. The listing of these names establishes the foundation for the exponential growth described in verse 7, where the Israelites become “fruitful and multiplied greatly.” This proliferation fulfills the divine mandate given to humanity in Genesis 1:28 and the specific promise to Abraham that his offspring would be as numerous as the stars. Yet, the mention of Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher also foreshadows the challenges ahead, for these tribes, like their brothers, will face the crucible of slavery. Their inclusion in the genealogical record serves as a reminder that God’s covenant embraces the entirety of Israel, regardless of their status or origin within the family, and that His purposes will prevail despite the looming shadow of oppression.

Theologically, Exodus 1:4 affirms the continuity of God’s covenantal faithfulness. The sons of Jacob, though now in a foreign land, are not forgotten; their names are recorded as a testament to God’s enduring commitment to the promises made to their forefathers. The verse stands as a silent rebuke to the powers of Egypt, which will soon seek to crush Israel’s growth, for no human force can thwart the divine will that has called these tribes into being. Moreover, the listing of these names anticipates the formation of the twelve tribes as a unified nation, each with its distinct identity yet bound together under God’s covenant. This unity in diversity reflects the wisdom of God, who weaves the varied threads of human lives into a single tapestry of redemption.

In a broader scriptural context, the tribes named in Exodus 1:4 find their ultimate significance in the eschatological vision of God’s kingdom. The book of Revelation, in its depiction of the 144,000 sealed from every tribe of Israel, includes Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher among the redeemed, signifying their enduring place in God’s redemptive economy. Though Dan’s tribe would later stumble into idolatry and face exclusion in certain biblical traditions, its mention here affirms God’s initial inclusion and grace, a reminder that His purposes extend even to those who falter. Naphtali, Gad, and Asher, too, will each contribute to Israel’s story, from their allotments in the Promised Land to their roles in the unfolding of God’s salvation history.

In conclusion, Exodus 1:4, though brief, is a profound declaration of divine fidelity, anchoring the narrative of Israel’s sojourn and deliverance in the concrete reality of its tribal origins. The names Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher are not mere historical markers but bearers of divine promise, testifying to God’s sovereign plan to multiply, preserve, and redeem His people. Through this verse, we are invited to behold the meticulous care of a God who remembers each name, who orders the lineage of His covenant community, and who, through the trials of Egypt and beyond, remains steadfast in His purpose to bring forth a people for His glory.

-----------------------------------

Grace be multiplied unto you, and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, who was, and is, and is to come. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, who has given us a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and who keeps us by His power through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Brethren beloved of the Lord, I write to you concerning the steadfast purpose of our God, whose counsel shall stand and whose word shall not fail. Let us take heed to the Scriptures, which were written aforetime for our instruction, that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

For it is written in the book of Moses, in the account of the generations of the sons of Israel: “Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher.” — Exodus 1:4. Though this verse be but a single stone in the great edifice of holy writ, yet even here the Spirit of God breathes, and from these words the wise may glean understanding.

For behold, the names of the sons of Israel are recounted at the beginning of that great book of deliverance. These names are not written in vain, nor preserved by chance, but by divine purpose, to declare the faithfulness of God to His covenant. The sons of Jacob, each called by name, entered Egypt as sojourners, and from them arose a great multitude, a nation beloved of the Lord.

Consider, brethren, the mention of Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher—four among the twelve—remnants of a promise made long before, in the days of Abraham, when God said: “I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you.” Though generations passed and circumstances changed, the promise stood firm. Though the seed of Abraham sojourned in a foreign land, yet God remembered His word and made them fruitful.

Even so, beloved, are we not the children of promise? For it is written: “If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise.” Therefore, let us not despise the genealogies of old, nor the recording of names, for they testify to this unshakable truth—that our God remembers His people, that He calls them by name, and that none are forgotten before Him.

Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher—though they entered Egypt few in number, yet the Lord multiplied them exceedingly. Though they were strangers in a land not their own, the hand of the Almighty was upon them. Though Pharaoh arose who knew not Joseph, and oppression came upon them, yet the eye of the Lord watched over them, and in due time He raised up a deliverer.

Take heart, therefore, O people of God, in these days when the world waxes dark and trials abound. For the God who remembered Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher, remembers you. The God who preserved the sons of Jacob in a strange land preserves His church in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. The God who multiplied the seed of Abraham will yet gather to Himself a people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.

See how faithful is our God: though His people be oppressed, they shall not be consumed; though they be scattered, they shall be gathered; though they be tried, they shall be refined. For He who began a good work in them will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Therefore, beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain. Fear not, for the Lord who brought Israel out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Trust in Him who numbers the stars and calls them all by name—for surely He knows your name and will never forsake you.

And as the names of Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher were preserved in the sacred record, so too are the names of the faithful written in the Lamb’s book of life. Rejoice, therefore, not that the spirits are subject to you, but that your names are written in heaven. For the Lord shall gather His elect from the four winds, and none shall be missing on that great and glorious day.

Finally, beloved, let us walk worthy of the calling we have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Let us remember the faithfulness of God to His ancient people, and let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

Now unto Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy—to the only wise God our Savior, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forevermore. Amen.

------------------------------------

O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Eternal King and Sovereign over all the earth, we come before You this day in reverence and awe, lifting our hearts in prayer and adoration. You who were before the foundations of the world were laid, You who call forth generations and establish the times and seasons by Your unsearchable wisdom—we give You praise.

For it is written in Your holy Word: “Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher.” Thus are named the sons of Israel, those whom You chose, called, and appointed to be a people for Your own possession. In these names, O Lord, we behold the faithfulness of Your covenant, the remembrance of Your promise, and the steadfastness of Your love.

You, O Lord, are the God who remembers names. You are the God who numbers the stars and calls them all by name; how much more do You remember the children of men, those whom You have fashioned with Your own hand! As You remembered Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher, and preserved their names in the book of life and history, so also do You remember each of us who call upon Your name in faith.

We bless You, O God, that You are not a God who forgets. Though generations rise and fall, though nations flourish and fade, You remain the same, faithful to all who trust in You. From the loins of Jacob You brought forth twelve tribes, and from them a great nation, according to Your promise to Abraham. And though they entered Egypt few in number, You multiplied them exceedingly; though they were afflicted, You strengthened them; though they were oppressed, You prepared a deliverance.

Even so, Most High God, look upon Your people in this present age. Though we too are sojourners and pilgrims in a land not our own, yet we trust in Your unchanging Word. Though the world rages and the enemy seeks to weary the saints, yet You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Remember us, O Lord, as You remembered the sons of Israel. Remember us for good, for the sake of Your covenant in Christ Jesus. Write our names in Your book; establish our place among those who fear Your name. Cause us to bear fruit and multiply in every good work, as You caused Your ancient people to grow and prosper according to Your purpose.

We beseech You, Almighty Father, to grant us faith like theirs, that we may endure with steadfast hearts. As Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher bore witness to Your faithfulness from generation to generation, so may we bear witness to the glory of Your grace. Let not our faith falter in times of affliction, but strengthen us by Your Spirit, that we may stand firm to the end.

O God of remembrance, remember also the afflicted among us; remember the poor and the needy; remember the sick and the weary; remember those who mourn and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Lift up the lowly and exalt the humble. Bind up the brokenhearted and proclaim liberty to the captives, even as You did for Your people in the land of Egypt.

And now, O Lord of hosts, we ask that You would gather to Yourself a people in this generation, from every tribe and tongue and nation. As You gathered the twelve sons of Israel and made of them one people, so gather Your church under one Head, even Christ our Lord. Make us one body, one Spirit, one hope, as we are called in one calling.

May the record of Your faithfulness in days of old inspire in us holy fear, deep trust, and unwavering hope. Let the testimony of Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher remind us that no name is forgotten before You, that no life is too small to be used for Your glory, and that Your purposes shall stand throughout all generations.

Therefore, with grateful hearts, we commit ourselves anew to Your service. Lead us, O Shepherd of Israel, as You led Your people through the wilderness. Sustain us with the bread of heaven and the water of life. Guide us by the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. Cause Your face to shine upon us and give us peace.

And in that day when all things are made new, when the names of the redeemed are called before Your throne, may we be found among them, clothed in white robes, singing the song of the Lamb. For Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever and ever.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord, in whom all the promises of God are Yes and Amen, we offer this prayer. Amen.