The Tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. Named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph and Asenath, the tribe is notable for its unique inheritance and role in the covenantal blessings and curses pronounced upon entering the Promised Land.

Ancestry and Inheritance

Manasseh was the elder son of Joseph, the son of Jacob (Israel), and his Egyptian wife, Asenath. Despite being the firstborn, Manasseh's younger brother, Ephraim, received the greater blessing from their grandfather Jacob (Genesis 48:13-20). Nevertheless, the tribe of Manasseh was granted a substantial inheritance. The tribe was divided into two half-tribes: one settled on the east side of the Jordan River, and the other on the west, making it unique among the tribes of Israel.

Role in the Blessing on Mount Gerizim

The tribe of Manasseh played a pivotal role during the ceremony of blessings and curses as the Israelites entered the Promised Land. According to Deuteronomy 27:11-13, Moses commanded that six tribes stand on Mount Gerizim to pronounce blessings, while the other six stood on Mount Ebal to pronounce curses. The tribe of Manasseh was among those chosen to stand on Mount Gerizim and affirm the blessings. The Berean Standard Bible records this event: "And Moses commanded the people on that day, saying, 'When you have crossed the Jordan, these tribes shall stand on Mount Gerizim to bless the people: Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin'" (Deuteronomy 27:11-12).

Significance of the Blessing

The act of standing on Mount Gerizim and saying "Amen" to the blessings was a profound declaration of faith and commitment to the covenant with God. By affirming the blessings, the tribe of Manasseh, along with the other tribes on Gerizim, acknowledged the conditions of the covenant and the rewards of obedience to God's commandments. This event underscored the importance of faithfulness and the blessings that follow adherence to God's law.

Territorial Allotment and Influence

The western half-tribe of Manasseh received a portion of land in the central region of Canaan, which included fertile areas and strategic locations. The eastern half-tribe settled in the region of Gilead and Bashan, known for its rich pastures. This division allowed the tribe to exert influence over a large territory, contributing to its prominence among the tribes of Israel.

Legacy and Historical Impact

Throughout biblical history, the tribe of Manasseh played a significant role in the narrative of Israel. Notable figures from this tribe include Gideon, a judge who delivered Israel from Midianite oppression (Judges 6-8), and Jair, another judge who led Israel for twenty-two years (Judges 10:3-5). The tribe's strategic location and military prowess often positioned it as a key player in the defense and governance of the nation.

The tribe of Manasseh's participation in the blessings on Mount Gerizim remains a testament to its commitment to the covenant and its integral role in the unfolding account of God's people.Deuteronomy 27:12
These shall stand on mount Gerizim to bless the people, when you are come over Jordan; Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Joseph, and Benjamin:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Memoir of John Bunyan
... tinker, that occupation being then followed by the Gipsy tribe. ... I heard and considered
what they said, I left ... that the Holy Spirit was blessing their Christian ...
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