The tribe of Zebulun was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. They were descendants of Zebulun, one of the sons of Jacob. Though not much is said about them in Scripture, there are still valuable lessons we can learn from this obscure tribe. Here are a few key things the Bible reveals about Zebulun:
1. Zebulun’s Territory and Livelihood
Zebulun’s allotted territory was in the fertile western Galilee region, which was ideal for agriculture and maritime trade (Joshua 19:10-16). They likely engaged extensively in business and commerce via the Mediterranean Sea. Deborah praised Zebulun as a tribe that “jeopardized their lives to the death in the high places of the field” (Judges 5:18), probably referring to their valiant fighting abilities. But they were also known as a tribe focused on “bringing wealth” through trading (Genesis 49:13).
Lesson: God strategically places each of us where we can thrive and utilize our skills and passions. For Zebulun, it was business, trade and the ability to gain wealth even in difficult circumstances. We should seek to know our skills and calling, and find ways to honor God within our spheres of influence.
2. Partnership with Issachar
Zebulun and Issachar appear to have had a symbiotic partnership. Issachar was more focused on studying the Torah, while Zebulun was engaged in maritime trade (Genesis 49:13-15; Deuteronomy 33:18-19). Yet together they found tremendous success.
Lesson: We all have different gifts and callings, but we can accomplish more in partnership with each other. It’s beneficial to collaborate with those who complement our abilities and fill our gaps. Serving together yields better results than working alone.
3. Dependence on the Lord
Despite being strategically located for commerce, Zebulun still recognized their prosperity was from God, not their own efforts. After a victorious battle, the “princes of Zebulun” brought offerings to the Lord (Judges 5:14-15). They knew who deserved the ultimate credit.
Lesson: No matter how hard we work or how much we accomplish, it is the Lord who ultimately blesses our labor. A heart of gratitude and dependence on God is essential, even when we are living in our sweet spot.
4. Answered the Call to War
Though trade oriented, Zebulun didn’t shy away from battle when called upon. They helped Deborah and Barak defeat the Canaanites (Judges 4:6, 10). Years later, 50,000 warriors from Zebulun were among the troops who made David king of Israel (1 Chronicles 12:33).
Lesson: There are seasons when God calls us to step out of our comfort zone and employ our skills in a new arena for His purposes. We need flexibility and willingness to fight spiritual and social battles when He says the time has come.
5. Remained Faithful after Exile
After the Assyrian exile, Zebulun was among the first tribes to return to rebuild the altar and temple in Jerusalem under Zerubbabel and Jeshua (Ezra 2:1-2; 3:2). They could have remained comfortable in exile but were committed to restoring true worship.
Lesson: When we mess up and find ourselves far from God’s ideal, it’s easy to languish in guilt and despair. But Zebulun’s example inspires us to take responsibility and actively return to the Lord, re-establishing a life of obedience and service to Him.
6. Produced No Well-Known Heroes
Zebulun didn’t produce any major prophet, judge, or king for Israel. No famous Zebulunite is recorded. Yet they remained faithful as a tribe generation after generation.
Lesson: Most of us will also live quietly, anonymously serving God in everyday life. And that’s okay. We shouldn’t need fame or recognition. Consistency in doing good matters more to God than a flashy legacy.
7. Played a Supporting Role
Zebulun isn’t primary in any biblical story, always supporting more prominent tribes like Judah and Naphtali. But they fulfilled their part well.
Lesson: There is dignity and value in quietly filling supporting roles, even if we don’t get the limelight. When others are shining, we should find joy in encouraging them from the wings rather than demanding attention for ourselves.
8. Loyal Partner to Moses and David
Zebulun supplied capable men to stand with Moses and implement God’s instructions (Numbers 1:30-31). Much later they enthusiastically aligned with David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:33). They were faithful during two key leadership transitions.
Lesson: It is vital that we remain loyal to good leaders, especially those appointed by God. During times of leadership change, we should avoid anxious knee-jerk reactions but be steady in continuing the Lord’s work.
9. Not Swayed by Idolatry
Despite their exposure to international trade, Zebulun did not pick up the idolatrous practices of pagan nations. They adhered to worshiping Yahweh alone, even if they were less vocal about their faith than other tribes.
Lesson: It can be tempting to adopt the habits and value systems of the culture around us. But Zebulun teaches us that quiet conformity to God is better than vocal compromise.
10. Chin Up in Hardship
Most of Zebulun’s territory was seized by Assyria during the exile, cutting them off from commerce. Yet they accepted judgment and still rebuilt the temple post-exile. Their hope was in God, not prosperity.
Lesson: When our identity and security is in Christ, we can weather even huge economic disasters without abandoning our faith. He will sustain us through it all.
In summary, though the Bible doesn’t provide a robust picture of Zebulun, their story still offers valuable lessons for those who are willing to glean them. They modeled partnership, faithfulness, contentment, loyalty, dependance on God, and perseverance through hardship. Let’s learn from this obscure but steadfast tribe!
