Topical Encyclopedia The Tribe of Gad is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The name "Gad" is often associated with fortune or a troop, reflecting the tribe's characteristics and destiny as depicted in biblical narratives.Ancestry and Blessings Gad was born to Jacob and Zilpah, as recorded in Genesis 30:9-11. Leah named him Gad, saying, "How fortunate!" (Genesis 30:11). Jacob's blessing over Gad, as he lay on his deathbed, is recorded in Genesis 49:19: "Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will attack their heels." This prophecy alludes to the tribe's future military prowess and resilience. Moses also blessed the tribe before his death, as recorded in Deuteronomy 33:20-21: "Blessed is he who enlarges Gad’s domain! Gad dwells like a lion, tearing at an arm or a head. He chose the best land for himself, because a ruler’s portion was reserved there. He came with the leaders of the people; he carried out the LORD’s justice and His ordinances for Israel." Territory and Settlement The tribe of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This territory was well-suited for their needs, providing ample pastureland for their flocks and herds. Numbers 32:1-5 describes how the Gadites, along with the Reubenites, requested this land from Moses because of its suitability for livestock. Moses granted their request on the condition that they assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Numbers 32:20-22). The land of Gad was bordered by the tribe of Reuben to the south and the half-tribe of Manasseh to the north. It included key cities such as Ramoth-gilead, a city of refuge, and Jabesh-gilead. Military Role and Characteristics The tribe of Gad was known for its military strength and valor. In 1 Chronicles 12:8, the Gadites are described as "mighty men of valor, men trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains." This reputation for bravery and skill in warfare was consistent with Jacob's and Moses' blessings. During the reign of King David, the Gadites played a significant role in supporting his kingship. They were among the first to join David at Ziklag, demonstrating their loyalty and martial prowess (1 Chronicles 12:14-15). Spiritual and Historical Significance The tribe of Gad, like the other tribes, was part of the covenant community of Israel, participating in the religious and cultural life centered around the worship of Yahweh. Despite their geographical separation from the main body of Israel, the Gadites maintained their identity and allegiance to the God of Israel. Throughout biblical history, the tribe of Gad faced challenges, including conflicts with neighboring nations and internal struggles. Their territory was vulnerable to attacks due to its location, yet they remained a significant part of the Israelite confederation. In the prophetic literature, the tribe of Gad is mentioned in Ezekiel's vision of the restored land (Ezekiel 48:27-28), indicating their continued place in God's plan for Israel. Conclusion The Tribe of Gad exemplifies themes of resilience, strength, and faithfulness within the broader narrative of Israel's history. Their account is a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel and their role in the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes. Smith's Bible Dictionary the Tribe Of GadThe country allotted to the tribe of Gad appears, speaking roughly, to have lain chiefly about the centre of the land east of Jordan. The sought of that district --from the Arnon (Wady Mojeb), about halfway down the Dead Sea, to Heshbon, nearly due east of Jerusalem --was occupied by Reuben, and at or about Heshbon the possessions of Gad commenced. They embraced half Gilead, (3:12) or half the land of the children of Ammon, (Joshua 13:25) probably the mountainous district which is intersected by the torrent Jabbok, including, as its most northern town, the ancient sanctuary of Mahanaim. On the east the furthest landmark given is "Aroer that is before Rabbah," the present Amman . (Joshua 13:25) West was the Jordan. ver. (Joshua 13:27) The character of the tribe is throughout strongly marked --fierce and warlike. Greek 1045. Gad -- Gad, a tribe of Isr. ... 1044, 1045. Gad. 1046 . Gad, a tribe of Isr. ... Word Origin of Hebrew origin Gad Definition Gad, a tribe of Isr. NASB Word Usage Gad (1). Gad. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1045.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 1410. Gad -- a son of Jacob, also his tribe and its territory ...... Gad. From guwd; Gad, a son of Jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet -- Gad. see HEBREW guwd. 1409, 1410. Gad. 1411 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/1410.htm - 6k Library Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied ... The Sealing of the Servants of God. That Upon the Slaughter of Ishbosheth by the Treachery of his ... The Six Cities. The Cities of Refuge Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of ... The Story of the Baptist, from his Last Testimony to Jesus to his ... The Story of a Cup of Water How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The Six Cities Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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