The Clans of Manasseh refer to the subdivisions within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Manasseh was the firstborn son of Joseph, the son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel. The tribe of Manasseh holds a significant place in the history of Israel, both in terms of its size and its territorial inheritance.

Genealogy and Ancestry

Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, was adopted by Jacob as his own sons, thus granting them a share in the inheritance of the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48:5). This adoption elevated Manasseh and Ephraim to the status of tribal patriarchs, each leading their own tribe. The descendants of Manasseh are detailed in several genealogical records in the Bible, notably in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Chronicles.

The sons of Manasseh, as recorded in the Bible, include Machir, who was the father of Gilead. Machir's descendants became prominent in the tribe, and the clan of Machir is often highlighted in biblical texts. Other clans within the tribe of Manasseh include the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida (Numbers 26:29-32).

Territorial Inheritance

The tribe of Manasseh was unique in that it received a double portion of land, with territories on both sides of the Jordan River. This division is a reflection of the tribe's size and the blessing given by Jacob. The half-tribe of Manasseh settled east of the Jordan, in the region of Gilead and Bashan, while the other half settled west of the Jordan, in the land of Canaan.

The eastern portion of Manasseh's inheritance included the lands of Gilead and Bashan, which were known for their fertile pastures and strategic locations. The western portion included territories in the central highlands of Canaan, adjacent to the tribes of Ephraim and Issachar.

Role in Israel's History

The tribe of Manasseh played a significant role in the history of Israel. Its members were known for their valor and military prowess. Notably, Gideon, one of the judges of Israel, hailed from the clan of Abiezer within the tribe of Manasseh (Judges 6:11). Gideon's leadership was instrumental in delivering Israel from the oppression of the Midianites.

The tribe's strategic location and size also made it a key player in the political and military affairs of the nation. During the period of the united monarchy, the tribe of Manasseh supported King David and later King Solomon. However, following the division of the kingdom, the tribe became part of the northern kingdom of Israel.

Biblical References

The Bible provides several references to the clans of Manasseh, highlighting their genealogies, territorial allotments, and historical contributions. Key passages include:

· Genesis 48:5-6: Jacob's adoption of Manasseh and Ephraim.
· Numbers 26:29-34: The census of the tribe of Manasseh and its clans.
· Joshua 17:1-6: The allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh.
· Judges 6:11-15: The calling of Gideon from the clan of Abiezer.

The tribe of Manasseh, with its rich heritage and significant contributions, remains an integral part of the biblical narrative, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.