The Machirites are a significant clan within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. They are descendants of Machir, the firstborn son of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph and Asenath. The Machirites hold a notable place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Israelite settlement in the Promised Land.

Genealogy and Ancestry

Machir, the progenitor of the Machirites, is mentioned in several genealogical records in the Bible. In Genesis 50:23, it is noted that Joseph saw the third generation of Ephraim's children and also the children of Machir, son of Manasseh, indicating the early establishment of Machir's lineage. The Machirites are thus directly linked to the patriarch Joseph, whose life and legacy are pivotal in the history of Israel.

Territorial Inheritance

The Machirites were granted a significant portion of land on the east side of the Jordan River. This allocation is detailed in the Book of Numbers, where it is recorded that the descendants of Machir, being warriors, captured the region of Gilead and Bashan. Numbers 32:39-40 states, "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 Machirites, the descendants of Manasseh, and they settled there."

This territory was known for its fertile land and strategic location, making it a valuable inheritance for the Machirites. The land of Gilead, in particular, is frequently mentioned in the Bible for its balm and other resources, underscoring the prosperity and importance of the region.

Role in Israelite Society

The Machirites played a crucial role in the military and social structure of ancient Israel. As noted in Joshua 17:1, "Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn: Gilead and Bashan were given to Makir the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead, because he was a man of war." This passage highlights the martial prowess of the Machirites, which was instrumental in the conquest and defense of their allotted territories.

Furthermore, the Machirites are mentioned in the context of the daughters of Zelophehad, who were also descendants of Manasseh. In Numbers 27 and 36, the daughters successfully petitioned for their right to inherit their father's land, setting a precedent for inheritance laws in Israel. This legal development underscores the Machirites' involvement in shaping the societal norms of the Israelite community.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Machirites, as part of the larger tribe of Manasseh, contributed to the cultural and historical fabric of Israel. Their settlement in Gilead and Bashan not only expanded the territorial boundaries of Israel but also facilitated the integration of diverse peoples and cultures within the Israelite confederation. The Machirites' legacy is thus intertwined with the broader narrative of Israel's growth and development as a nation.

In summary, the Machirites are a prominent clan within the tribe of Manasseh, known for their military strength, territorial inheritance, and influence on Israelite society. Their account is a testament to the enduring legacy of the descendants of Joseph and their role in the unfolding history of God's chosen people.The Machirites

the descendants of Machir the father of Gilead. (Numbers 26:29)

4354. Makiri -- descendant of Machir
... descendant of Machir. Transliteration: Makiri Phonetic Spelling: (maw-kee-ree')
Short Definition: Machirites. ... of Machir NASB Word Usage Machirites (1). of Machir ...
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