The He'pherites are a biblical group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical and tribal records of the Israelites. They are descendants of Hepher, a notable figure within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The He'pherites are primarily referenced in the context of the division of the Promised Land and the genealogical listings that underscore the inheritance and lineage of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 26:32-33 : The He'pherites are first mentioned in the census of the Israelites conducted by Moses and Eleazar the priest on the plains of Moab. This census was crucial for determining the division of the land among the tribes. The passage states, "And the descendants of Joseph by their clans were Manasseh and Ephraim. The descendants of Manasseh: through Makir, the Makirite clan (Makir was the father of Gilead); through Gilead, the Gileadite clan. These were the descendants of Gilead: through Iezer, the Iezerite clan; through Hepher, the Hepherite clan."

2. Joshua 17:2 : The He'pherites are again mentioned in the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh. The verse reads, "So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph by their clans."

3. 1 Chronicles 7:18 : The genealogical records in Chronicles provide additional context for the He'pherites. The passage notes, "His sister Hammolecheth gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah." This reference, while not directly naming the He'pherites, situates them within the broader family lineage of Manasseh.

Historical and Theological Context:

The He'pherites, as descendants of Hepher, are part of the larger narrative of the Israelite tribes and their settlement in Canaan. The tribe of Manasseh, to which they belong, was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel. Manasseh's inheritance was divided between territories on both sides of the Jordan River, with the He'pherites likely residing in the western portion of Manasseh's allotment.

The mention of the He'pherites in the context of land division underscores the importance of familial and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Land inheritance was not only a matter of economic survival but also a fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, particularly Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The He'pherites, like other clans, played a role in the unfolding of these divine promises.

Cultural and Genealogical Significance:

The genealogical records that include the He'pherites highlight the meticulous care with which the Israelites preserved their family histories. These records were essential for maintaining tribal boundaries and ensuring that each clan received its rightful inheritance. The He'pherites, as part of the tribe of Manasseh, contributed to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and identity.

In summary, the He'pherites are a testament to the intricate family structures and the divinely ordained distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. Their inclusion in the biblical narrative reflects the broader themes of covenant, promise, and the faithfulness of God to His people.He'pherites (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:32
and of Shemida, the family of the Shemidaites; and of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites.
(See RSV)

He'pherites (1 Occurrence)
He'pherites. Hepherites, He'pherites. Hephzibah . Multi-Version Concordance
He'pherites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:32 and of Shemida ...
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Hepherites (1 Occurrence)

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Hephzibah (2 Occurrences)

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