Topical Encyclopedia The Iezerites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are identified as descendants of Iezer, one of the sons of Gilead, who was a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph. The Iezerites are part of the larger tribal confederation of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to the Iezerites is found in the Book of Numbers, where the census of the Israelites is recorded. In Numbers 26:30, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These were the descendants of Gilead: the Iezerite clan from Iezer, the Helekite clan from Helek." This passage places the Iezerites within the genealogical framework of the tribe of Manasseh, specifically as descendants of Gilead. Historical Context: The tribe of Manasseh was one of the two tribes that descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel. Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, received a special blessing from their grandfather Jacob, as recorded in Genesis 48. The tribe of Manasseh was unique in that it was divided into two half-tribes, with portions of its territory located on both the eastern and western sides of the Jordan River. The Iezerites, as part of the Gileadite lineage, would have been associated with the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh. This region, known as Gilead, was located east of the Jordan River and was known for its rugged terrain and fertile land. The Gileadites played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the period of the Judges. Cultural and Theological Significance: The Iezerites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, contributed to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and identity. Each clan and family within the tribes had its own unique role and heritage, which collectively formed the nation of Israel. The genealogical records, such as those mentioning the Iezerites, underscore the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Iezerites in the biblical record highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The division and distribution of the land among the tribes, including the Iezerites, were seen as a direct result of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenantal promise assured the descendants of these patriarchs a place in the Promised Land, which was central to their identity as God's chosen people. Conclusion: While the Iezerites are not prominently featured in the biblical narrative, their mention in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the detailed and intricate history of the tribes of Israel. As part of the tribe of Manasseh, the Iezerites contribute to the broader understanding of Israel's tribal structure and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IEZER; IEZERITESi-e'-zer, i-e'-zer-its ('i`ezer, Numbers 26:30): Contracted from ABIEZER (Joshua 17:2, etc.) (which see). Strong's Hebrew 373. Iezri -- a descendant of Iezer... Iezri. 374 . a descendant of Iezer. Transliteration: Iezri Phonetic Spelling: (ee-ez-ree') Short Definition: Iezerites. Word Origin from Iezer Definition a desc ... /hebrew/373.htm - 6k Thesaurus Iezerites (1 Occurrence)... IEZER; IEZERITES. ie'-zer, ie'-zer-its ('i`ezer, Numbers 26:30): Contracted from ABIEZER (Joshua 17:2, etc.) (which see). ...Iezerites (1 Occurrence). ... /i/iezerites.htm - 7k Iezerite (1 Occurrence) Iezer (1 Occurrence) Ie'zerites (1 Occurrence) Ie'zer (1 Occurrence) Clan (96 Occurrences) He'lekites (1 Occurrence) Helekites (1 Occurrence) Helekite (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Iezerites (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:30 Subtopics Related Terms |