The tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a unique position in biblical history due to its division into two half-tribes, with one half settling east of the Jordan River. This entry focuses on the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh, exploring its origins, territory, and significance within the biblical narrative.

Origins and Ancestry

The tribe of Manasseh traces its lineage to Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph and his Egyptian wife, Asenath. Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel), was elevated to a position of power in Egypt, and his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, were adopted by Jacob as his own, thus receiving an inheritance among the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48:5). This adoption effectively elevated Manasseh and Ephraim to the status of tribal patriarchs, each founding a distinct tribe.

Settlement East of the Jordan

The division of the tribe of Manasseh into two half-tribes occurred during the conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Moses and later Joshua. The eastern half-tribe of Manasseh, along with the tribes of Reuben and Gad, requested to settle in the fertile lands east of the Jordan River, which were well-suited for their large herds and flocks. Moses granted their request on the condition that they assist in the conquest of the land west of the Jordan (Numbers 32:1-33).

The territory allotted to the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh extended from the northern reaches of the Gilead region to the southern slopes of Mount Hermon, encompassing parts of Bashan. This area was known for its rich pastures and strategic locations, including cities such as Ashtaroth and Edrei (Deuteronomy 3:13-15).

Historical and Biblical Significance

The eastern half-tribe of Manasseh played a significant role in the history of Israel. Their location made them a buffer against eastern invaders, and they were often involved in conflicts with neighboring peoples. Despite their geographical separation from the main body of Israel, they maintained their identity and allegiance to the covenant community.

In the biblical narrative, the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh is noted for its valor and military prowess. In 1 Chronicles 5:18-22, the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh are described as "valiant men, men able to bear shield and sword, and to shoot with the bow, and skillful in war," who waged successful campaigns against the Hagrites and other tribes.

However, the eastern tribes, including Manasseh, faced spiritual challenges due to their proximity to pagan nations. This led to periods of idolatry and apostasy, which were condemned by the prophets and ultimately contributed to their downfall. In 2 Kings 17:6, the Assyrian conquest led to the exile of the eastern tribes, including the half-tribe of Manasseh, marking a significant turning point in their history.

Legacy

The legacy of the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh is a testament to the complexities of maintaining faith and identity amidst external pressures and influences. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the consequences of straying from His commandments.

In summary, the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh occupies a distinct place in the biblical narrative, characterized by its strategic location, military strength, and spiritual challenges. Their history reflects the broader themes of faith, identity, and covenant loyalty that are central to the story of Israel.Numbers 32:33,39-42
And Moses gave to them, even to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and to half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, even the cities of the country round about.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Tradition attributed the misfortunes of the tribe to the ... in size: Ephraim, Gad, and
Manasseh comprised many ... and, pressing towards the territory east of that ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... The Treres were probably the predominating tribe among the ... One half of the army
proclaimed Sharezer king; the ... Arabs bordering on Chaldaea in the east; and the ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... his aid"The Scythian invasion"Judah under Manasseh and Amon ... protected it on the north
and east, extending from ... The river came right up to the walls on the ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

What is the Prayer of Manasseh? | GotQuestions.org

Why did Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh want to live on the east of the Jordan? | GotQuestions.org

Who was King Amon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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