The concept of Twelve tribes in Christianity
According to Christianity, the Twelve tribes refer to the distinct groups descended from the sons of Jacob that formed the nation of Israel. These tribes played a crucial role in the historical and theological framework of faith, representing God's chosen people and their divisions. The twelve tribes, which include Reuben, Judah, Gad, and others, were central to biblical narratives and the early church's mission, symbolizing not only Israel's unity but also the broader spiritual significance in the Christian tradition.
In Malay: Dua belas suku; In Swedish: Tolv stammar; In Spanish: Doce tribus; In Dutch: Twaalf stammen; In Finnish: Kaksitoista heimoa; In German: Zwölf Stämme; In French: Douze tribus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Twelve tribes'
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) These are represented by the twelve unleavened loaves placed on the table, which were not diminished even after some tribes' defection.[1] (2) This is the group of descendants to whom the Epistle was addressed, and the text highlights the intended audience of the writing.[2] (3) This refers to a group of people that Jesus would judge from the throne, and Judas's expectations and views of his master's role in this are considered within the text.[3] (4) Twelve tribes is the group that included the tribe of Issachar, which initially ranked fifth numerically, and later rose in rank, as it increased in numbers.[4] (5) This refers to the offspring of Jacob, and the text indicates that the jealousy between sister-wives, as exemplified by Jacob, was meant to be avoided.[5]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) These are the people whom the apostles will judge while sitting on twelve thrones, in the regeneration when the Son of man sits on His throne of glory.[6] (2) The twelve tribes of Israel were represented on the breast-plate, engraved on stones, and symbolizing the entire chosen nation as a kingdom of priests.[7] (3) The whole twelve tribes are referenced as being represented by the mention of Israel in the context of the text, particularly in Joel 3:2.[8] (4) This phrase refers to the people to whom James's epistle was addressed, indicating its intended audience.[9] (5) This refers to the tribes that the loaves of bread represented before Jehovah perpetually, as mentioned in the provided text.[10]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) These are mentioned in connection with the promise of the disciples sitting on twelve thrones, judging them, in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of His glory, according to the gospel narratives.[11] (2) The fundamental divisions of the people of Israel, whose names signify their importance and relationship to God.[12] (3) The twelve tribes refer to the scattered groups of believers addressed in the letter, indicating a diverse audience that likely does not share common troubles.[13] (4) A reference to the biblical descendants of Jacob, symbolizing God's chosen people and their roles within the faith as depicted in the Christian narrative.[14] (5) The symbolic representation of the unity of Israel, used in the context of the number of barrels of water.[15]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) The twelve tribes of Israel were represented by the twelve loaves of the presence-bread, which symbolized the nation’s gratitude to God.[16] (2) Refers to the collective grouping of Israelite tribes that had not yet been fully established during Deborah's leadership.[17] (3) The constituent groups of Israel that were united under Moses' leadership and legal framework.[18] (4) A reference to the ancient divisions of the people of Israel, indicating that the mission of the twelve Apostles was initially directed towards the people of Israel.[19]
From: The Complete Sayings of Jesus
(1) This term refers to a group of people that will be judged, and their judgment is linked to the seating of others on thrones in a specific setting.[20]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) The twelve tribes of Israel, symbolized by a sceptre given to Jacob, represent a significant element in the narrative, denoting a bestowed honor or recognition.[21] (2) These are the groups of people that Esther, with strong faith, put herself in danger to rescue from a terrible fate, illustrating her selflessness and devotion.[22] (3) The group of people who will be judged by those who sit on twelve thrones in the new world, as referenced in the words of Jesus, according to the text provided.[23] (4) This refers to the original division of the people of God, who were separated into twelve distinct groups, each with its own characteristics, and these are symbolically represented in the context of those who believe in Christ.[24] (5) The twelve tribes of Israel are mentioned in the text as a group of people whose records are examined and whose offerings are brought to the Lord, and they are referenced in multiple contexts throughout the narrative.[25]
From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary
(1) This refers to the twelve groups of Israel, who will be judged by those who have followed Jesus, implying a role in judgment and governance.[26]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) These represent the descendants of Jacob, whom the saints will judge, highlighting the judiciary power that Christ shares with His followers.[27] (2) The original divisions of the people of Israel, referred to in the context of the judgment to imply that judgment extends beyond these tribes to all humanity.[28]
From: The Kebra Nagast
(1) These will be shamed at the second coming, highlighting a group of people.[29]