The Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh are three groups within the twelve tribes of Israel, each descending from the sons of Jacob. These tribes are notable for their settlement on the eastern side of the Jordan River, a decision that holds significant historical and theological implications within the biblical narrative.

Reubenites

The Reubenites are descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. Despite Reuben's status as the firstborn, his tribe did not receive the preeminent blessing due to Reuben's transgression with Bilhah, his father's concubine (Genesis 35:22; 49:3-4). The tribe of Reuben, therefore, did not produce any significant leaders or kings in Israel's history.

In the wilderness, the Reubenites were part of the southern camp alongside the tribes of Simeon and Gad (Numbers 2:10-16). Their request to settle in the land of Gilead, east of the Jordan, was granted by Moses after they promised to assist in the conquest of Canaan (Numbers 32:1-5, 16-19). This decision is recorded in the Book of Numbers: "So Moses gave to the Gadites, the Reubenites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh son of Joseph the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan—the land with its cities and the territory surrounding them" (Numbers 32:33).

Gadites

The Gadites are descendants of Gad, the seventh son of Jacob, born to Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Known for their valor and military prowess, the Gadites are described as "brave warriors, ready for battle" (1 Chronicles 12:8). Like the Reubenites, the Gadites requested to settle in the fertile lands of Jazer and Gilead, which were suitable for their large herds and flocks (Numbers 32:1-5).

Their commitment to aiding their fellow Israelites in the conquest of Canaan is emphasized in the biblical text. Moses' agreement with them is conditional upon their participation in the military campaigns west of the Jordan: "But if you do not do this, you will certainly sin against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23).

Half-Tribe of Manasseh

The half-tribe of Manasseh descends from Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph and Asenath, an Egyptian woman. Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, was adopted by Jacob as his own sons, thus receiving a portion of the inheritance (Genesis 48:5). The tribe of Manasseh was divided, with half settling east of the Jordan and the other half in Canaan.

The eastern half-tribe of Manasseh was granted land in Bashan, a region known for its rich pastures and strategic location (Deuteronomy 3:13). This division is noted in the biblical record: "Half the tribe of Manasseh, the descendants of Machir son of Manasseh, went to Gilead and captured it, driving out the Amorites who were there" (Numbers 32:39).

Historical and Theological Significance

The decision of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan River is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates the tribes' desire for immediate settlement and prosperity, as well as their commitment to the collective mission of the Israelites. However, their geographical separation from the other tribes occasionally led to tensions and misunderstandings, as seen in the incident of the altar built by these tribes, which nearly led to civil war (Joshua 22:10-34).

Theologically, their account underscores themes of unity, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite their separation, these tribes remained part of the covenant community, bound by their shared history and faith in the God of Israel. Their narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and cooperation within the broader community of God's people.