Machir, the firstborn son of Manasseh, holds a significant place in the biblical narrative as a prominent figure among the descendants of Joseph. His lineage is often associated with strength and valor, and he is recognized as the progenitor of the Machirites, a clan within the tribe of Manasseh. The biblical account of Machir and his descendants is primarily found in the Old Testament, where his legacy is intertwined with the territorial inheritance and military exploits of the tribe of Manasseh.

Genealogy and Family

Machir was the son of Manasseh, who was the firstborn of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel). The genealogical records in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua highlight Machir's role as the father of Gilead, further establishing his importance within the tribe. Numbers 26:29 states, "The descendants of Manasseh: through Machir, the Machirite clan; Machir was the father of Gilead."

Territorial Inheritance

The descendants of Machir played a crucial role in the conquest and settlement of the land east of the Jordan River. The tribe of Manasseh was divided into two half-tribes, with one half settling on the east side of the Jordan. Machir's descendants were instrumental in the conquest of Gilead and Bashan, regions known for their fertile lands and strategic importance.

In Joshua 13:31, it is recorded that certain cities of Bashan were given to the descendants of Machir: "Half of Gilead, Ashtaroth, and Edrei—the royal cities of Og in Bashan—were given to the descendants of Machir son of Manasseh, for half of the Machirites." This allocation underscores the prominence of Machir's lineage in the territorial expansion and governance of the region.

Military Prowess

The Machirites were renowned for their military capabilities, which were crucial in the defense and expansion of their inherited territories. In the Song of Deborah, found in Judges 5, the valor of Machir's descendants is celebrated. Judges 5:14 mentions, "From Ephraim, their roots in Amalek; Benjamin was with the people who followed you. From Machir, captains came down; from Zebulun, those who bear the marshal’s staff."

Legacy

Machir's legacy is one of leadership and strength, as his descendants played a pivotal role in the establishment and defense of the Israelite territories east of the Jordan. The Machirites' contribution to the military and territorial achievements of the tribe of Manasseh is a testament to the enduring influence of Machir's lineage in the history of Israel. His account is a reflection of the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Joseph, as they took possession of the land and established their presence in the Promised Land.Joshua 13:31
And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, were pertaining to the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, even to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.
Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 17:1
There was also a lot for the tribe of Manasseh; for he was the firstborn of Joseph; to wit, for Machir the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead: because he was a man of war, therefore he had Gilead and Bashan.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their own daughters to their
sons, and served ... The families of Machir and Jair migrated one after the ...
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