The Machirites are a significant group within the tribal structure of Israel, specifically associated with the tribe of Manasseh. The name "Machirites" is derived from Machir, the firstborn son of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph and Asenath. Machir himself is a prominent figure in the genealogical and territorial narratives of the Old Testament.

Genealogy and Ancestry

Machir is recognized as the progenitor of the Machirites. In the genealogical records, Machir is noted for his role in the lineage of Manasseh. According to 1 Chronicles 7:14-15, Machir was born to Manasseh and his Aramean concubine. Machir's descendants are often referred to as the Machirites, and they played a crucial role in the settlement and expansion of the tribe of Manasseh.

Territorial Inheritance

The Machirites were allotted a significant portion of land on the east side of the Jordan River. This territory included the region of Gilead, which was known for its fertile land and strategic location. In Numbers 32:39-40, it is recorded that "the descendants of Machir son of Manasseh went to Gilead, captured it, and drove out the Amorites who were there. So Moses gave Gilead to the Machirites, the descendants of Manasseh, and they settled there" . This passage highlights the Machirites' military prowess and their role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land.

Role in Israel's History

The Machirites, as part of the tribe of Manasseh, were instrumental in the history of Israel. Their territory in Gilead became a significant area for the northern tribes. The Machirites' influence extended beyond their immediate region, as they were involved in various military and political events throughout Israel's history.

In the time of the Judges, the Machirites were part of the coalition that supported Deborah and Barak in their battle against Sisera, as noted in Judges 5:14. This indicates their continued involvement in the defense and leadership of the nation.

Cultural and Spiritual Legacy

The Machirites, like other tribes and clans of Israel, were expected to adhere to the covenantal laws and practices established by God through Moses. Their identity as part of the tribe of Manasseh linked them to the broader narrative of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their role in the unfolding account of redemption.

The Machirites' legacy is preserved in the biblical record as a testament to their faithfulness and contribution to the nation of Israel. Their account is a reminder of the importance of each tribe and clan in the fulfillment of God's purposes for His people.4354. Makiri -- descendant of Machir
... descendant of Machir. Transliteration: Makiri Phonetic Spelling: (maw-kee-ree')
Short Definition: Machirites. ... of Machir NASB Word Usage Machirites (1). of Machir ...
/hebrew/4354.htm - 6kMachirites (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Machirites (2 Occurrences). Numbers 26:29 The
sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites...
/m/machirites.htm - 7k

Machirite (1 Occurrence)
... Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and
Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/m/machirite.htm - 8k

Machir (20 Occurrences)
... Numbers 26:29-33; Joshua 13:31). His descendants are referred to under the name
of Machirites, being the offspring of Gilead (Numbers 26:29). ...
/m/machir.htm - 16k

Ma'chirites (1 Occurrence)
Ma'chirites. Machirites, Ma'chirites. Machmas . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Machirites, Ma'chirites. Machmas . Reference Bible.
/m/ma'chirites.htm - 6k

Gileadites (5 Occurrences)
... Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and
Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/g/gileadites.htm - 8k

Gileadite (10 Occurrences)
... Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and
Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/g/gileadite.htm - 9k

Makir (17 Occurrences)
... Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and
Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/m/makir.htm - 11k

Manas'seh (123 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the
Machirites--and Machir begot Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/m/manas'seh.htm - 35k

Makirite (1 Occurrence)
... Numbers 26:29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and
Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. ...
/m/makirite.htm - 6k

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