The term "Hepherite" refers to the descendants or inhabitants of Hepher, a location and lineage mentioned in the Old Testament. The Hepherites are associated with the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name "Hepher" itself is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "a well" or "a pit," which may indicate the geographical or topographical features of the area associated with this lineage.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 26:32-33 : In the census of the Israelites conducted in the wilderness, the descendants of Hepher are mentioned as part of the genealogical record of the tribe of Manasseh. "And the descendants of Manasseh by their clans were the Makirite clan from Makir, the Gileadite clan from Gilead, and these were the descendants of Gilead: the Iezerite clan from Iezer, the Hepherite clan from Hepher."

2. Joshua 17:2-3 : The Hepherites are again mentioned in the context of the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh. "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 Kings 4:10 : Hepher is also noted as a district under the jurisdiction of one of Solomon's twelve district governors. "Ben-Hesed, in Arubboth (Socoh and all the land of Hepher were his)."

Historical and Theological Context:

The Hepherites, as part of the tribe of Manasseh, played a role in the settlement and development of the land west of the Jordan River. The tribe of Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob, and was known for its significant size and influence. The Hepherites, as a clan within this tribe, contributed to the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the inheritance of the land.

The mention of Hepher in the context of Solomon's administrative districts highlights the continued importance of this region during the united monarchy of Israel. The land of Hepher, being part of Solomon's extensive kingdom, was subject to the king's governance and contributed to the prosperity and stability of Israel during his reign.

Genealogical Significance:

The genealogical records in the Old Testament, including those of the Hepherites, serve to establish the continuity of God's covenant with His people. The detailed listing of clans and families underscores the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. The Hepherites, as part of the broader narrative of the Israelites, are a testament to the fulfillment of divine promises and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history.

Cultural and Geographical Insights:

The name "Hepher" and its association with wells or pits may provide insights into the lifestyle and environment of the Hepherites. Wells were crucial for survival in the arid regions of the Near East, and their presence often determined the location and prosperity of settlements. The Hepherites, like other Israelite clans, would have relied on such resources for their agricultural and pastoral activities.

In summary, the Hepherites are a notable clan within the tribe of Manasseh, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Old Testament. Their mention in various biblical passages highlights their role in the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land.Hepherite (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:32
and of Shemida, the family of the Shemidaites; and of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites.
(Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV)

Hepherite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hepherite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:32 and of Shemida,
the family of the Shemidaites; and of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites. ...
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Hepher (11 Occurrences)

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Hepherites (1 Occurrence)

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