People & Office
The Twelve Tribes of Israel
The sons of Jacob and their inheritance in the land.
| Tribe | Meaning of Name | Patriarchal Blessing | Breastplate Stone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reuben | Behold, a son | Gen 49:3–4 | Sardius |
| Simeon | Heard | Gen 49:5–7 | Topaz |
| Levi | Joined | Gen 49:5–7 (priesthood, Num 3) | Carbuncle |
| Judah | Praise | Gen 49:8–12 | Emerald |
| Dan | Judge | Gen 49:16–18 | Sapphire |
| Naphtali | My wrestling | Gen 49:21 | Diamond |
| Gad | A troop cometh | Gen 49:19 | Ligure |
| Asher | Happy | Gen 49:20 | Agate |
| Issachar | There is reward | Gen 49:14–15 | Amethyst |
| Zebulun | Dwelling | Gen 49:13 | Beryl |
| Joseph (Ephraim/Manasseh) | He shall add | Gen 49:22–26 | Onyx |
| Benjamin | Son of my right hand | Gen 49:27 | Jasper |