Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Gad's is a term that primarily refers to the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The tribe of Gad played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. Biblical Background: Gad was born to Jacob and Zilpah, as recorded in Genesis 30:9-11: "When Leah saw that she had stopped having children, she took her maidservant Zilpah and gave her to Jacob as a wife. And Leah’s maidservant Zilpah bore Jacob a son. Then Leah said, 'How fortunate!' So she named him Gad." Territory and Settlement: The tribe of Gad settled on the east side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This territory was well-suited for their needs, as it was rich in pastureland, which was ideal for their large herds and flocks. Numbers 32:1-5 describes the request of the Gadites to settle in this land: "Now the Reubenites and Gadites had very large herds and flocks, and they saw that the lands of Jazer and Gilead were suitable for livestock. So the Gadites and Reubenites came to Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the congregation and said, 'Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon, the land that the LORD subdued before the congregation of Israel, is suitable for livestock, and your servants have livestock.'" Role in Israel's History: The tribe of Gad was known for its valor and military prowess. In 1 Chronicles 12:8, the Gadites are described as "mighty men of valor, trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains." This reputation for strength and bravery was evident in their support of King David during his reign. Prophetic Blessing: Jacob's blessing over Gad is recorded in Genesis 49:19: "Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will attack their heels." This prophecy highlights the tribe's resilience and ability to overcome adversaries. Similarly, Moses' blessing in Deuteronomy 33:20-21 emphasizes Gad's strength and leadership: "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain! Gad dwells like a lion, tearing at arm and head. He chose the best land for himself, because a ruler’s portion was reserved there. He came with the heads of the people; he carried out the LORD’s righteous will and His judgments concerning Israel." Cultural and Religious Contributions: The tribe of Gad, along with Reuben and the half-tribe of Manasseh, played a crucial role in the religious life of Israel. They built an altar by the Jordan River as a witness to their shared faith with the other tribes, as detailed in Joshua 22:10-34. This act demonstrated their commitment to the covenant with God and their unity with the rest of Israel. Conclusion: The tribe of Gad holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, known for its strength, strategic location, and commitment to the people of Israel. Their legacy is one of courage, faithfulness, and a deep connection to the land and the covenant with God. Library Thoughts on Talking On Genesis. Thesaurus Gad's (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Gad's (3 Occurrences). ... (See NIV). 2 Samuel 24:19 And David went up according to the saying of Gad, as the LORD commanded. (See RSV). ... /g/gad's.htm - 7k Gadites (32 Occurrences) Gaham (1 Occurrence) Adullam (10 Occurrences) Resources Who was Gad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Gad the seer? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Gad? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gad's (3 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 33:20 2 Samuel 24:19 1 Chronicles 21:19 Subtopics Related Terms |