In the Twelve Tribes of Israel Garden, the tribe of Benjamin is situated just east of Judah. The other boundaries of the tribe are Ephraim to the north and east, and Gad to the south. In Deuteronomy 33:12 Moses said, “The people of Benjamin are loved by the Lord and live in safety beside him. He surrounds them continuously and preserves them from every harm.” Because Benjamin was Jacob’s youngest son, the children’s department adopted this section of the garden for their own. Just as the Lord surrounded Benjamin and preserved them from harm, so those who minister to children feel the same protective instinct. For that reason, we placed Benjamin in the heart of the garden, surrounded by the rest of the tribes.
Historically, the major portions of the Torah relating to Benjamin’s month of Kislev are associated with dreams during the night season. The Feast of Lights–Hanukkah–is celebrated at the end of this month. Additionally, the animal connected to Benjamin is the wolf, an animal that is certainly suited to the night. And so, the children have started the planting of their garden area with white flowering plants that will reflect moonlight or bloom only in the evening.
Last Sunday, April 3, a group of children, parents, grandparents, aunts, teachers and friends joined together in the garden to clear weeds, roots, and debris in preparation for planting. The children planted a white-blooming dogwood tree, night-blooming jasmine, variegated flag and hostas, shasta daisies, artemesia, and an Eve’s Necklace tree. I was blessed and impressed by the energy and perseverance of this group of children. They worked just as hard as any adult in the group and entered into the future plans with enthusiasm. I am looking forward to our next work day!
Take a look at this beautiful group of young gardeners.
