Topical Encyclopedia Geuel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. He is one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan, as recorded in Numbers 13. Geuel represents the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His name in Hebrew, גְּאוּאֵל (Ge'u'el), is often interpreted to mean "Majesty of God" or "Pride of God."Biblical Account In Numbers 13:1-2, the LORD instructs Moses to send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which He is giving to the Israelites. Each of the twelve tribes is to send one leader. Geuel is chosen to represent the tribe of Gad. Numbers 13:15 states, "from the tribe of Gad, Geuel son of Machi." The mission of the spies is to assess the land and its inhabitants, evaluating its fertility, the strength of its cities, and the nature of its people. The spies spend forty days exploring Canaan and return with a report to Moses and the Israelite community. They bring back samples of the land's produce, including a cluster of grapes so large that it must be carried on a pole between two men (Numbers 13:23). Upon their return, ten of the spies, including Geuel, deliver a discouraging report. They acknowledge the land's abundance but emphasize the formidable strength of its inhabitants and the fortified cities. Numbers 13:31-32 records their words: "We cannot attack those people, for they are stronger than we are." They spread a bad report among the Israelites, saying, "The land we explored devours its inhabitants, and all the people we saw there are of great size." This negative report incites fear and rebellion among the Israelites, leading them to question God's promise and express a desire to return to Egypt. Only two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, stand firm in their faith, urging the people to trust in God's promise and power to deliver the land into their hands (Numbers 14:6-9). Theological Significance Geuel's role as one of the ten spies who brought back a negative report highlights the theme of faith versus fear. The account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of doubting God's promises and succumbing to fear. The Israelites' lack of faith results in their wandering in the wilderness for forty years, as God decrees that none of the men of that generation, except Joshua and Caleb, will enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14:29-30). Geuel's account underscores the importance of trusting in God's power and faithfulness, even when circumstances appear daunting. It also illustrates the impact of leadership and the responsibility leaders have to guide their people in faith and obedience to God. Tribe of Gad The tribe of Gad, which Geuel represents, is one of the twelve tribes descended from Jacob's sons. Gad is the seventh son of Jacob, born to Zilpah, Leah's maidservant (Genesis 30:9-11). The tribe of Gad is known for its warrior spirit and played a significant role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. In the division of the land, Gad receives territory on the east side of the Jordan River, known for its good pastureland, suitable for their large flocks and herds (Numbers 32:1-5). Geuel's participation in the exploration of Canaan is a part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the fulfillment of God's promise to give them a land of their own. His account, though brief, is a reminder of the challenges and choices faced by God's people as they seek to live in accordance with His will. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary GeuelSmith's Bible Dictionary Geuel(majesty of God), son of Machi the Gadite spy. (Numbers 13:15) (B.C 1490.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GEUELgu'-el, ge-u'-el (ge'u'el, "majesty of God"): The spy from the tribe of Gad (Numbers 13:15), sent by Moses to spy out the land of Canaan. Strong's Hebrew 1345. Geuel -- "majesty of El," a Gadite spy... 1344, 1345. Geuel. 1346 . "majesty of El," a Gadite spy. Transliteration: Geuel Phonetic Spelling: (gheh-oo-ale') Short Definition: Geuel. ... /hebrew/1345.htm - 6k Thesaurus Geuel (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GEUEL. ... Multi-Version Concordance Geuel (1 Occurrence). Numbers 13:15 Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi. ... /g/geuel.htm - 6k Geu'el (1 Occurrence) Machi (1 Occurrence) Gad (78 Occurrences) Getting-in (1 Occurrence) Maki (1 Occurrence) Tribe (250 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Geuel (1 Occurrence)Numbers 13:15 Subtopics Related Terms |