1 Chronicles 7:14
The descendants of Manasseh: Through his Aramean concubine, Asriel, as well as Machir the father of Gilead.
The descendants of Manasseh
This phrase introduces the lineage of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, who was a significant figure in the history of Israel. Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, received a blessing from Jacob, their grandfather, which elevated them to the status of Jacob's own sons (Genesis 48:5). This blessing is crucial as it sets the stage for the tribes of Israel, with Manasseh becoming one of the half-tribes. The historical context here is the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes, where Manasseh received a large portion on both sides of the Jordan River, indicating their importance and strength.

Asriel
Asriel is mentioned as a descendant of Manasseh. The name Asriel means "God is my help," reflecting a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize reliance on God. This name is significant as it underscores the faith and dependence on divine assistance that characterized the people of Israel. The mention of Asriel here highlights the continuation of God's promise through the lineage of Manasseh.

whom his Aramean concubine bore
This phrase introduces a cultural and historical element. The mention of an Aramean concubine indicates a connection between the Israelites and the Arameans, a neighboring people. Concubinage was a common practice in ancient times, often used to form alliances or increase a family's lineage. The inclusion of an Aramean woman in the genealogy of Manasseh suggests a blending of cultures and peoples, which was not uncommon in the ancient Near East. This reflects the complex social and familial structures of the time.

she gave birth to Makir
Makir is identified as a significant figure in the tribe of Manasseh. His name means "sold" or "bartered," which may imply a transactional or covenantal aspect to his birth or role. Makir's prominence is seen in his association with the region of Gilead, indicating his leadership and influence. The historical context here is the settlement and expansion of the tribe of Manasseh, with Makir playing a key role in establishing their presence in the land.

the father of Gilead
Gilead is both a person and a region, known for its balm and rugged terrain. The phrase "father of Gilead" signifies Makir's foundational role in the establishment of this area. Gilead became a significant region in biblical history, often associated with healing and refuge. Theologically, this can be seen as a metaphor for God's provision and care for His people, as Gilead was a place of sustenance and security. The historical significance of Gilead is further emphasized in its frequent mention in the narratives of the judges and kings of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Manasseh
The firstborn son of Joseph, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Manasseh's descendants are significant in the history of Israel, particularly in the allocation of land.

2. Asriel
A son of Manasseh, mentioned here as a descendant through an Aramean concubine. His lineage is part of the tribe of Manasseh.

3. Aramean Concubine
The unnamed concubine of Manasseh, highlighting the cultural and familial complexities in the tribal histories of Israel.

4. Makir
Another son of Manasseh, recognized as the father of Gilead. Makir's descendants played a significant role in the settlement of the land east of the Jordan River.

5. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It became a significant area for the tribe of Manasseh.
Teaching Points
Understanding Lineage and Heritage
The genealogies in the Bible, such as those in 1 Chronicles, remind us of the importance of heritage and God's faithfulness through generations. Reflect on how your spiritual heritage shapes your faith today.

Cultural and Familial Complexities
The mention of an Aramean concubine highlights the diverse cultural interactions in biblical times. Consider how God works through diverse backgrounds and situations to fulfill His purposes.

God's Promises Fulfilled
The allocation of land to the descendants of Manasseh, including Gilead, demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Trust in God's promises for your life, knowing He is faithful to complete what He has begun.

Role of Women in Biblical Narratives
Although unnamed, the Aramean concubine played a crucial role in the lineage of Manasseh. Recognize the often-overlooked contributions of women in biblical history and in the church today.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the lineage of Manasseh reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?

2. In what ways can understanding your spiritual heritage impact your faith journey today?

3. How does the inclusion of an Aramean concubine in the genealogy of Manasseh challenge or affirm your understanding of God's work through diverse backgrounds?

4. What lessons can we learn from the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh about God's provision and promises?

5. How can we recognize and honor the contributions of women in our faith communities, drawing from the example of the Aramean concubine's role in this passage?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 41:51
This verse introduces Manasseh as Joseph's son, providing context for his significance in Israel's history.

Numbers 26:29-34
This passage lists the descendants of Manasseh, including Makir and Gilead, offering a broader genealogical context.

Joshua 17:1-6
These verses describe the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, including the land of Gilead, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel.
The Old Order ChangethW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 7:1-19
GenealogiesF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 7, 8
GenealogiesJ.R. Thomson 1 Chronicles 1-9
People
Abiah, Abiezer, Abijah, Aher, Ahi, Ahian, Ahishahar, Aiah, Alameth, Alemeth, Amal, Ammihud, Anathoth, Aniam, Ara, Arah, Aram, Asher, Ashriel, Ashvath, Asriel, Becher, Bedan, Beera, Bela, Benjamin, Bered, Beri, Beriah, Bezer, Bilhah, Bilhan, Bimhal, Birzavith, Chenaanah, Dan, David, Ehud, Eladah, Elead, Eliezer, Elioenai, Elishama, Ezbon, Ezer, Guni, Hammoleketh, Haniel, Hanniel, Harnepher, Heber, Helem, Hod, Hotham, Huppim, Huppites, Hushim, Hushites, Imna, Imnah, Imrah, Iri, Ishiah, Ishod, Ishuai, Issachar, Isshiah, Isuah, Ithran, Izrahiah, Jahmai, Jahziel, Japhlet, Jashub, Jediael, Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Jehubbah, Jephunneh, Jeremoth, Jeriel, Jerimoth, Jether, Jeush, Jezer, Jibsam, Jimna, Jimnah, Joash, Joel, Joseph, Joshua, Laadan, Likhi, Maacah, Maachah, Machir, Mahalah, Mahlah, Malchiel, Manasseh, Michael, Naphtali, Non, Nun, Obadiah, Omri, Pasach, Peresh, Pispah, Puah, Rakem, Rekem, Rephah, Rephaiah, Resheph, Rezia, Rohgah, Samuel, Serah, Shallum, Shamer, Shamma, Shaul, Shelesh, Shemer, Shemida, Shemidah, Shemuel, Sherah, Sheresh, Shillem, Shilshah, Shimrom, Shimron, Shomer, Shua, Shual, Shuppim, Shuppites, Shuthelah, Suah, Tahan, Tahath, Tarshish, Telah, Tharshish, Tola, Ulam, Ulla, Uzzi, Uzziel, Zabad, Zelophehad, Zemira, Zethan, Zophah
Places
Ayyah, Bethel, Beth-horon, Beth-shan, Dor, Gath, Gezer, Gilead, Heshbon, Megiddo, Naaran, Shechem, Taanach, Upper Beth-horon, Uzzen-sheerah
Topics
Aramaean, Aramean, Aramitess, Ashriel, Asriel, As'ri-el, Bare, Birth, Bore, Concubine, Descendant, Gilead, Jaladah, Machir, Makir, Manasseh, Manas'seh, Servant-wife, Sons, Syrian, Wife
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 7:14

     5672   concubines

1 Chronicles 7:14-40

     7266   tribes of Israel

Library
Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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