Reuben

The eldest son of Jacob and Leah (Gen 29:31, 32 Gen 35:23 Gen 46:8 1 Chr 2:1 1 Chr 5:1). As to his life history, he is mentioned first as finding mandrakes in the field, which Rachel desired (Gen 30:14) next for his immorality with Bilhah (ch 35:22) for which he later lost his father's blessings that would have been due him as the first—born (ch 49:3, 4) third, for his attempt to save Joseph from his murderous brothers by inducing them to throw him into a cistern instead (ch 37:21—29).

Although he did not betray his brothers to their father, he was not a partner in their plot against Joseph (ch 42:22). Later, when Jacob feared to send Benjamin to Egypt, Reuben offered 2 of his own sons as guarantees for Benjamin's safety (v 37). On his deathbed Jacob expressed the disappointment that his first—born son's conduct had caused him, and described his character as being unstable as water (ch 49:3, 4). Reuben's sons were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi (Gen 46:8, 9 Ex 6:14 1 Chr 5:3).