Topical Bible: Gad: A Tribe of Israel in the Reign of Jotham

◄ Gad: A Tribe of Israel in the Reign of Jotham ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, traces its lineage to Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Zilpah, Leah's maidservant (Genesis 30:9-11). The tribe is known for its valor and military prowess, as prophesied by Jacob: "Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will attack their heels" (Genesis 49:19). This martial spirit characterized the tribe throughout its history, including during the reign of Jotham, king of Judah.

Territorial Inheritance

The tribe of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This territory was well-suited for their pastoral lifestyle, providing ample grazing land for their flocks and herds. The land of Gad was bounded by the tribe of Reuben to the south and the half-tribe of Manasseh to the north. The strategic location of Gad made it a buffer zone against eastern invaders, which often required the tribe to defend its territory vigorously.

Role During the Reign of Jotham

Jotham, the son of Uzziah, reigned as king of Judah from approximately 750 to 735 BC. His reign is noted for its relative peace and prosperity, as well as his efforts to fortify the kingdom and promote religious reforms. Although the tribe of Gad was part of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, its history during Jotham's reign is intertwined with the broader geopolitical dynamics of the region.

During this period, the Northern Kingdom faced increasing pressure from the Assyrian Empire. The Assyrian threat loomed large over the tribes east of the Jordan, including Gad. The tribe's warriors were likely involved in defending their territory against Assyrian incursions, as well as skirmishes with neighboring peoples such as the Ammonites and Moabites.

Religious and Cultural Aspects

The tribe of Gad, like the other tribes of Israel, was expected to adhere to the covenantal laws given through Moses. However, the separation from the central worship site in Jerusalem posed challenges for maintaining religious purity and unity. The influence of surrounding pagan cultures often led to syncretism and idolatry, which the prophets of Israel vehemently opposed.

Despite these challenges, the tribe of Gad maintained its identity and contributed to the cultural and religious life of Israel. The Gadites were known for their loyalty and bravery, qualities that were celebrated in the biblical narrative and later Jewish tradition.

Legacy

The legacy of the tribe of Gad is preserved in the biblical record and Jewish tradition. Their reputation as fierce warriors and defenders of Israel's eastern frontier is a testament to their enduring spirit. The tribe's history during the reign of Jotham reflects the broader struggles and triumphs of the Israelite tribes during a tumultuous period in their history.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 5:11-17
And the children of Gad dwelled over against them, in the land of Bashan to Salcah:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The First vision "On Earth"
... prince which standeth for the children of thy people (Israel): and there ... Of the tribe
of Reuben, twelve thousand; [187] Of the tribe of Gad, twelve thousand ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the first vision on earth.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... they came in time to form a tribe by themselves ... probably date from the end of the
reign of Jeroboam ... is there mentioned as still forming part of Israel (Hosea 6:8 ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... beyond the Jordan at the time that Gad and Reuben ... of the captivity of the land."*
The tribe of Dan ... showed itself the most bellicose of the tribes of Israel. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm