Machir is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known as the firstborn son of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph and Asenath. His lineage and descendants played a crucial role in the settlement and tribal organization of Israel. The name "Machir" is often associated with strength and salesmanship, reflecting his prominent status among the tribes of Israel.

Genealogy and Family

Machir was born to Manasseh, the eldest son of Joseph, who was one of the twelve patriarchs of Israel. Joseph's wife, Asenath, was an Egyptian, making Machir part of a lineage that bridged Hebrew and Egyptian heritage. Machir's descendants are frequently mentioned in the context of the half-tribe of Manasseh, which settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

Territorial Inheritance

The descendants of Machir were granted a significant portion of land due to their military prowess and leadership. In the division of the Promised Land, the half-tribe of Manasseh, through Machir, received territories in Gilead and Bashan. This allocation is detailed in the Book of Numbers: "The descendants of Machir son of Manasseh went to Gilead, captured it, and drove out the Amorites who were there. So Moses gave Gilead to the clan of Machir son of Manasseh, and they settled there" (Numbers 32:39-40).

Military Leadership and Valor

Machir's descendants were known for their valor and military capabilities. The tribe of Manasseh, particularly the Machirites, played a vital role in the conquest of Canaan. Their reputation as warriors is highlighted in the biblical narrative, where they are often depicted as leading the charge in battles and securing victories for Israel.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Machirites' settlement in Gilead and Bashan placed them in a region of strategic importance, both culturally and economically. This area was known for its fertile land and was a crossroads for trade and military campaigns. The influence of Machir's descendants extended beyond their immediate territory, impacting the broader history of Israel.

Legacy and Descendants

Machir's legacy is carried on through his descendants, who continued to play a significant role in the history of Israel. Notably, Jair, a descendant of Machir, is mentioned as having taken control of several towns in Gilead, further expanding the influence of Machir's lineage: "Jair, a descendant of Manasseh, went and captured their settlements and called them Havvoth Jair" (Numbers 32:41).

Biblical References

Machir is mentioned in several key biblical passages, including Genesis 50:23, where Joseph is said to have seen the children of Machir, indicating the continuation of his line. Additionally, the genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7:14-16 provide further details on Machir's family and descendants.

In summary, Machir, as a son of Manasseh, holds a prominent place in the biblical narrative, with his descendants playing a crucial role in the military, territorial, and cultural development of the Israelite tribes. His legacy is reflected in the enduring influence of the half-tribe of Manasseh in the history of Israel.Genesis 50:23
And Joseph saw Ephraim's children of the third generation: the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were brought up on Joseph's knees.
Nave's Topical Index

How it is Said that Jacob Went into Egypt with Seventy-Five Souls ...
... into Egypt, and there found his grandsons, the sons of Joseph ... it does not mean one
day, or one year, but ... Then it is added, "The children also of Machir, the son ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/city of god/chapter 40 how it is said.htm

Chapter xlvi
... For Manasseh's son Machir and his son Gilead ate there listed as well as two sons
of Ephraim, Soutalaam and Taam, and also one son of Soutalaam, namely Edem. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Chapter l
... KS402 u). It surely is one of the most ... does suggest that as strangers in Egypt, Jacob's
sons could well ... Also the children of Machir, the son of Manasseh, were ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter l.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... The families of Machir and Jair migrated one after the ... He slew his brethren the sons
of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone." The ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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