Deuteronomy 33:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Beloved of God will find peace. This signifies the tranquility that Paul, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, experienced through the revelation he received on his journey to Damascus. It shall envelop him continually, and he will find solace in the depths of his being. This refers to the divine voice that enveloped Paul from the heavens, revealing to him the spiritual realms. This aligns with God's words to Ananias regarding Paul, stating, "He shall bring My name before the nations... as My chosen instrument” (Acts 9:15). The inheritance of Benjamin was located in Jerusalem, and Immanuel encompassed it throughout the day, as He was affixed to the cross on Mount Golgotha, extending His hands until evening.

Why was Benjamin, positioned last, placed fourth among the tribes? The tribe of Benjamin was home to a capital city where the temple was established. Thus, it was appropriate for Moses to position this tribe along with the priestly lineage in the holy area. The blessing itself anticipates this arrangement. For it is stated, "He that is beloved of the Lord shall trust in him," highlighting the basis for this trust: "and the Lord shall overshadow him all the days, and rest in the midst of his thrones" - signifying that being close to the sacred temple has granted this tribe continual Divine protection. Moses declared this within the temple, regarding God; when He established a temple in Jerusalem, He made His presence known there.