The Abiezrites are a clan within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. They are descendants of Abiezer, the son of Gilead, who was the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh. The Abiezrites are most notably associated with Gideon, one of the judges of Israel, who delivered the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites.

Biblical References:

1. Genealogy and Settlement:
The Abiezrites are first mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Manasseh. In Joshua 17:2, the descendants of Abiezer are listed among the families of Manasseh: "So this was the allotment for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph by their clans."

2. Gideon the Abiezrite:
The most prominent figure from the Abiezrites is Gideon, who is introduced in Judges 6. Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Judges 6:11 identifies Gideon as an Abiezrite: "Then the angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites."

3. Role in Deliverance:
Gideon's leadership and faith are central to the narrative of Israel's deliverance from Midianite oppression. Despite his initial hesitance and the small size of his army, Gideon leads the Israelites to victory, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness. Judges 6:34-35 describes the rallying of the Abiezrites to Gideon's cause: "So the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew the trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites to follow him."

4. Conflict and Resolution:
After the victory over the Midianites, there is a brief conflict between Gideon and the men of Ephraim, who felt slighted for not being called earlier to the battle. However, Gideon diplomatically resolves the tension, as recorded in Judges 8:1-3. The Abiezrites, under Gideon's leadership, play a crucial role in this period of Israel's history.

5. Legacy:
The legacy of the Abiezrites is closely tied to Gideon's account. His actions and faith are celebrated in the biblical narrative, and he is later mentioned in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11:32, which highlights the faith of the judges, including Gideon.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Abiezrites, like other clans of Manasseh, were settled in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. This area was known for its rugged terrain and strategic importance. The Abiezrites' involvement in the deliverance from the Midianites underscores the recurring theme of God using unlikely individuals and small groups to achieve His purposes, emphasizing divine strength over human might.

Theological Significance:

The account of the Abiezrites, particularly through Gideon, illustrates themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. Gideon's initial reluctance and subsequent obedience highlight the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when circumstances seem insurmountable. The Abiezrites' narrative serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering His people and the power of faith in action.