Topical Bible: Manasseh:: Reallotment of the Territory To, by Hazael

◄ Manasseh:: Reallotment of the Territory To, by Hazael ►

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Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's firstborn son, played a significant role in the history of the Israelite settlement in the Promised Land. The tribe of Manasseh was unique in that it was divided into two half-tribes, with portions of its territory located on both sides of the Jordan River. This division is rooted in the initial allotment of land under the leadership of Joshua, as recorded in the Book of Joshua.

The eastern half-tribe of Manasseh settled in the region of Gilead and Bashan, east of the Jordan River, while the western half-tribe occupied land in the central part of Canaan, west of the Jordan. This strategic positioning made Manasseh a significant player in the defense and administration of Israelite territories.

The reallotment of Manasseh's territory by Hazael, the king of Aram (Syria), is a notable event in the history of the tribe. Hazael, a formidable adversary of Israel, expanded his influence during the reign of Jehu and his successors in the northern kingdom of Israel. The biblical account of Hazael's campaigns against Israel is found in 2 Kings 10:32-33 : "In those days the LORD began to reduce the size of Israel. Hazael defeated the Israelites throughout their territory from the Jordan eastward—all the land of Gilead, the Gadites, the Reubenites, and the Manassites—from Aroer by the Arnon Gorge through Gilead to Bashan."

This passage highlights the impact of Hazael's military campaigns on the eastern territories of Israel, including those of the half-tribe of Manasseh. The reallotment of these lands under Hazael's control marked a period of significant territorial loss for Israel, as the Aramean king asserted dominance over the region. The loss of territory was a consequence of Israel's spiritual decline and disobedience to God's covenant, as the LORD allowed foreign powers to rise against them as a form of judgment.

Despite this setback, the tribe of Manasseh continued to play a vital role in the history of Israel. The resilience of the tribe is evident in the biblical narrative, as they eventually regained their territories and continued to contribute to the nation's military and spiritual leadership. The story of Manasseh's reallotment by Hazael serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the enduring hope of restoration through repentance and faithfulness.

In summary, the reallotment of Manasseh's territory by Hazael underscores the complex interplay of divine judgment, human agency, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for His people. The tribe of Manasseh, despite facing significant challenges, remained an integral part of Israel's history and legacy.

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2 Kings 10:33
From Jordan eastward, all the land of Gilead, the Gadites, and the Reubenites, and the Manassites, from Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, even Gilead and Bashan.
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