Topical Bible: Gilead: A Grazing Country

◄ Gilead: A Grazing Country ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Gilead, a region east of the Jordan River, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a land of pastoral beauty and agricultural abundance. It is characterized by its rolling hills and fertile valleys, making it an ideal location for grazing and livestock. The name "Gilead" is often associated with balm, a healing ointment, which further emphasizes the region's richness and natural resources.

Geographical Location and Boundaries

Gilead is situated between the Yarmuk River to the north and the Arnon River to the south, encompassing parts of modern-day Jordan. It is bordered by the Jordan River to the west and the Arabian Desert to the east. The region is divided into two main parts: northern Gilead, which includes the territory of Bashan, and southern Gilead, which is more directly referred to as Gilead in the Scriptures.

Biblical Significance

Gilead holds significant historical and theological importance in the Bible. It was allotted to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh as their inheritance (Numbers 32:1-5). The land's suitability for grazing is highlighted in Numbers 32:1 : "Now the Reubenites and Gadites had very large herds and flocks, and they saw that the lands of Jazer and Gilead were suitable for livestock."

The region is also known for its balm, a valuable commodity in ancient times. Jeremiah 8:22 famously asks, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?" This rhetorical question underscores Gilead's reputation for healing and medicinal resources.

Historical Events and Figures

Gilead is the backdrop for several key biblical narratives. It is the homeland of the prophet Elijah, who is described as a Tishbite from Gilead (1 Kings 17:1). The region also served as a refuge for David when he fled from Absalom (2 Samuel 17:22-24).

The judges of Israel, such as Jephthah, also have connections to Gilead. Jephthah, a Gileadite, is noted for his leadership and victory over the Ammonites (Judges 11:1-33). His account reflects the region's strategic importance and its role in the defense of Israel.

Cultural and Economic Aspects

Gilead's economy was largely based on agriculture and livestock. The fertile land supported the growth of crops and the raising of sheep and cattle. The balm of Gilead, derived from the resin of certain trees, was a significant trade item, sought after for its healing properties.

The pastoral lifestyle of Gilead's inhabitants is reflected in the biblical text, where the imagery of shepherding and grazing is prevalent. This lifestyle contributed to the region's identity and its depiction as a place of sustenance and provision.

Prophetic and Symbolic References

In addition to its historical and economic significance, Gilead holds symbolic meaning in biblical prophecy and literature. It is often used as a metaphor for healing and restoration. The "balm of Gilead" symbolizes God's provision and the hope of spiritual renewal.

The region's mention in prophetic texts, such as Hosea 6:8 , where it is described as a place of wickedness, also serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual challenges faced by its inhabitants. Despite its natural beauty and resources, Gilead, like all of Israel, was called to faithfulness and obedience to God.

In summary, Gilead is a region rich in natural resources and biblical history. Its pastoral landscapes and economic contributions are woven into the fabric of Israel's account, serving as a testament to God's provision and the enduring legacy of the land.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 32:1
Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place was a place for cattle;
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 5:9
And eastward he inhabited to the entering in of the wilderness from the river Euphrates: because their cattle were multiplied in the land of Gilead.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Chapter xxxi
... Besides, in shifting his grazing ground Jacob may have so arranged things before
he took his flight ... KC shows that "Gilead" is used for the country east of ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxi.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... Where artificial irrigation has been introduced, the fertility of the country is
quite as ... nearly the whole of Asia with these animals, and the grazing-lands of ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm