Topical Encyclopedia Machi is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal organization of Israel. He is identified as a member of the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name "Machi" is derived from the Hebrew root meaning "decrease" or "diminish," though the significance of this name in relation to his life or character is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text.Biblical References: Machi is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, where he is noted as the father of Geuel. Geuel was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. This mission was a pivotal moment in the history of Israel as it represented the people's first direct encounter with the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt. · Numbers 13:2-3, 13 : "Send out for yourself men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites. Send one man from each of their fathers’ tribes, every one a leader among them.” So at the consent of the LORD, Moses sent them out from the Wilderness of Paran. All the men were leaders of the Israelites... From the tribe of Asher, Sethur son of Michael; from the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi; from the tribe of Gad, Geuel son of Machi." In this passage, Machi is identified as the father of Geuel, who represented the tribe of Gad among the spies. This connection to the tribe of Gad, rather than Manasseh, is a point of interest, as it suggests a possible inter-tribal relationship or alliance, though the text does not provide further details. Tribal Context: The tribe of Manasseh, to which Machi belonged, was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel. Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, received a blessing from their grandfather Jacob, which elevated them to the status of full tribes within Israel (Genesis 48:5). The tribe of Manasseh was known for its significant territorial holdings on both sides of the Jordan River, with a portion settling in the land of Gilead and Bashan to the east. Historical and Theological Significance: While Machi himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his mention in the context of the spies' mission underscores the importance of familial and tribal affiliations in the organization and leadership of ancient Israel. The selection of leaders from each tribe for the reconnaissance mission highlights the representative nature of tribal leadership and the collective responsibility of the tribes in the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. Theologically, the account of the spies, including Geuel son of Machi, serves as a narrative of faith and obedience. The mixed report brought back by the spies led to a crisis of faith among the Israelites, resulting in their prolonged wandering in the wilderness. This episode is often cited as a lesson in trust and reliance on God's promises, with the faithful report of Caleb and Joshua standing in contrast to the fear and doubt expressed by the majority. In summary, Machi's mention in the Bible, though brief, is situated within a larger narrative that emphasizes the interconnectedness of tribal identity, leadership, and faith in the unfolding account of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MachiSmith's Bible Dictionary Machi(decrease), the father of Geuel the Gadite, who went with Caleb and Joshua to spy out the land of Canaan. (Numbers 13:15) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MACHIma'-ki (makhi; Peshitta and some manuscripts of Septuagint read "Machir"): A Gadite, father of Geuel, one of the 12 spies (Numbers 13:15). Strong's Hebrew 4352. Maki -- a Gadite... 4351, 4352. Maki. 4353 . a Gadite. Transliteration: Maki Phonetic Spelling: (maw-kee') Short Definition: Machi. Word Origin ... Machi (1). Machi. ... /hebrew/4352.htm - 5k Thesaurus Machi (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MACHI. ... Multi-Version Concordance Machi (1 Occurrence). Numbers 13:15 Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi. ... /m/machi.htm - 6k Gad (78 Occurrences) Geu'el (1 Occurrence) Geuel (1 Occurrence) Gevel (1 Occurrence) Machbe'nah (1 Occurrence) Machinations (1 Occurrence) Maki (1 Occurrence) Tribe (250 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Machi (1 Occurrence)Numbers 13:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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