The Twelve Tribes of Israel

The Twelve Tribes of Israel (ca 1200 BCE)

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    The Jewish forefather Jacob (renamed Israel in Genesis 32:29) - son of Isaac and grandson of the patriarch Abraham - fathered 12 sons. They are the ancestors of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
    Following their escape from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites, led by Moses, returned to the Land of Israel promised by God to their forefathers. There they settled under the leadership of Joshua and each tribe had its own territory, except for the tribe of Levi, which was assigned religious duties, especially in the Holy Temple. Ephraim and Menasheh, the two sons of Joseph were given the status of independent tribes and each was assigned its own territory.
     
    The Twelve Tribes of Israel
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    © IDF Mapping Unit
    This map is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered authoritative.