Gad is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The name "Gad" is often associated with fortune or luck, as Leah exclaimed at his birth, "A troop comes!" (Genesis 30:11). The tribe of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in a region known for its fertile land and pastures, which was well-suited for their large flocks and herds.

The territory of Gad was bounded by the Jordan River to the west, the land of Ammon to the east, and the tribe of Reuben to the south. This location made the Gadites skilled warriors, as they frequently defended their land from neighboring enemies. In 1 Chronicles 12:8, the Gadites are described as "mighty men of valor, men 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" .

Gad played a significant role during the conquest of Canaan. Although they settled east of the Jordan, the Gadites, along with the Reubenites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, pledged to assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Numbers 32:16-32). This commitment was honored under the leadership of Joshua.

In the prophetic blessings of Jacob and Moses, Gad is noted for his military prowess. Jacob prophesied, "Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will raid at their heels" (Genesis 49:19). Similarly, Moses blessed Gad, saying, "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain! Gad dwells like a lion, tearing at arm or head" (Deuteronomy 33:20).

Gilead

Gilead is a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm, a resin used for medicinal purposes. The name "Gilead" is often associated with rugged terrain and fertile land, making it suitable for agriculture and livestock. The region is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament and is associated with several tribes, including Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Gilead's boundaries are somewhat fluid in biblical texts, but it generally extends from the northern part of the Dead Sea to the southern part of the Sea of Galilee. It is divided into two main areas: the northern part, often referred to as Bashan, and the southern part, traditionally known as Gilead proper.

The region holds significant historical and theological importance. It was in Gilead that Jacob and Laban made a covenant, marked by a heap of stones, which they called Galeed (Genesis 31:47-48). Gilead was also the home of the prophet Elijah, who is described as a Tishbite from Gilead (1 Kings 17:1).

Gilead is frequently mentioned in the context of conflict and warfare. It was a battleground for various tribes and nations, including the Ammonites and the Israelites. Jephthah, a judge of Israel, was a Gileadite who led Israel to victory against the Ammonites (Judges 11:1-33).

The balm of Gilead is a recurring symbol in the Bible, representing healing and restoration. Jeremiah laments, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?" (Jeremiah 8:22). This imagery has been used throughout Christian history to symbolize spiritual healing and the hope found in God's salvation.