Asriel, sometimes referred to as Ashriel, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is recognized as a descendant of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, who was the son of Jacob (Israel). Asriel's lineage places him within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, which holds significant importance in the history and narrative of the Israelites.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 26:31 : "These were the descendants of Gilead: the Asrielite clan from Asriel, the Shechemite clan from Shechem." This verse identifies Asriel as a progenitor of the Asrielite clan, one of the families within the tribe of Manasseh. The context of this passage is a census taken by Moses and Eleazar the priest, listing the families of Israel as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

2. Joshua 17:2 : "So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These were the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph by their clans." Here, Asriel is mentioned among the clans that received an inheritance in the land of Canaan. This allocation of land was part of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham and his descendants.

3. 1 Chronicles 7:14 : "The descendants of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she gave birth to Makir the father of Gilead." This verse provides additional genealogical information, indicating that Asriel was born to Manasseh's Aramean concubine. It also connects Asriel to Makir, another significant figure within the tribe of Manasseh, known as the father of Gilead.

Historical and Theological Significance:

Asriel's mention in the genealogies and clan listings underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. The tribe of Manasseh, to which Asriel belonged, played a crucial role in the settlement and history of the Israelites in Canaan. The division of land among the tribes was not only a fulfillment of divine promise but also a practical arrangement for the governance and sustenance of the nation.

The inclusion of Asriel's lineage through an Aramean concubine highlights the complex familial and cultural interactions present in the biblical narrative. It reflects the broader theme of God's providence and sovereignty in using diverse and sometimes unexpected means to accomplish His purposes through His chosen people.

Asriel's legacy, as part of the tribe of Manasseh, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the continuity of God's covenantal promises from the patriarchs to the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land.Joshua 17:2
There was also a lot for the rest of the children of Manasseh by their families; for the children of Abiezer, and for the children of Helek, and for the children of Asriel, and for the children of Shechem, and for the children of Hepher, and for the children of Shemida: these were the male children of Manasseh the son of Joseph by their families.
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1 Chronicles 7:14
The sons of Manasseh; Ashriel, whom she bore: (but his concubine the Aramitess bore Machir the father of Gilead:
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