Numbers 34:14

KJV

For the tribe of the children of Reuben according to the house of their fathers, and the tribe of the children of Gad according to the house of their fathers, have received [their inheritance]; and half the tribe of Manasseh have received their inheritance:

KJV (with Strong's)

For the tribe {H4294} of the children {H1121} of Reuben {H7206} according to the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, and the tribe {H4294} of the children {H1121} of Gad {H1425} according to the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, have received {H3947} their inheritance; and half {H2677} the tribe {H4294} of Manasseh {H4519} have received {H3947} their inheritance {H5159}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The tribe of the descendants of Re'uven have already received their land for inheritance according to their clans, and so have the descendants of Gad and the half-tribe of M'nasheh.

Berean Standard Bible

For the tribes of the Reubenites and Gadites, along with the half-tribe of Manasseh, have already received their inheritance.

American Standard Version

for the tribe of the children of Reuben according to their fathers’ houses, and the tribe of the children of Gad according to their fathers’ houses, have received, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have received, their inheritance:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 34:14 serves as a crucial parenthetical clarification within the detailed instructions for the division of the Promised Land west of the Jordan River. It succinctly reiterates that the tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with half of the tribe of Manasseh, had already secured and taken possession of their designated tribal inheritances on the fertile eastern side of the Jordan. This verse distinguishes their settled status from the remaining nine and a half tribes for whom the subsequent land allocation instructions are intended, providing essential context for the meticulous geographical boundaries that follow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 34:14 is strategically placed within a chapter primarily devoted to outlining the precise geographical boundaries of the land of Canaan that was to be distributed among the remaining nine and a half Israelite tribes. Prior to this chapter, [Numbers 33](/numbers/33 "Numbers 33 - Israel's Journey Summary") provides a comprehensive summary of Israel's wilderness wanderings, bringing the narrative to the threshold of the Promised Land. Chapter 34 then pivots to the practicalities of settling this land. Verse 14 functions as a parenthetical note, a concise backward reference to the events detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordan Settlement"), where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh requested and were granted their inheritance east of the Jordan River. This reminder clarifies the scope of the subsequent land division instructions, ensuring the reader understands precisely which tribes are still awaiting their portion within Canaan proper. It acts as a vital bridge, connecting the prior narrative of the Transjordan settlement with the forthcoming meticulous allocation of land in the west.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting of Numbers 34 is the culmination of Israel's forty years of wilderness wandering, immediately preceding their entry into the Promised Land. The land east of the Jordan (Transjordan) had been recently conquered from Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, as vividly recounted in [Numbers 21](/numbers/21 "Numbers 21 - Victories over Sihon and Og"). The tribes of Reuben and Gad, possessing vast herds of livestock, recognized the rich pasturelands of Gilead and Bashan as ideal for their economic needs and formally requested this territory as their inheritance. Moses granted their petition under the strict condition that their fighting men would cross the Jordan with the other tribes and actively participate in the conquest of Canaan before returning to their Transjordan homes, an agreement meticulously recorded in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordan Agreement"). This unique arrangement underscores several key cultural values of ancient Israel: the paramount importance of tribal solidarity, the sanctity of covenant faithfulness, and the understanding of land not merely as property but as a divinely allotted inheritance, absolutely crucial for tribal identity, economic stability, and the practice of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.

* **Key Themes:** Though brief, Numbers 34:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. It powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Provision and Fulfillment of Promise**, as God systematically orchestrates the distribution of the promised land to Abraham's descendants, tribe by tribe, meticulously fulfilling the ancient covenant made with Abraham in passages like [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham"). The explicit mention of specific tribes also reinforces the profound theme of **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**, highlighting the meticulous care with which God ordered the nation's social, geographical, and familial structures. Furthermore, the implicit reference to the agreement detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordan Agreement") brings to the forefront the theme of **Covenant Loyalty and Corporate Responsibility**, demonstrating that while God remains utterly faithful to His promises, His people are simultaneously called to fulfill their obligations to Him and to one another in the collective pursuit of the divine plan for the nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Father (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** This primitive word signifies a literal and immediate father, but also extends to figurative and remote applications such as a chief or forefather. In the phrase "according to the house of their fathers," it underscores the patriarchal structure of Israelite society and the foundational role of ancestral lineage in determining tribal identity and, crucially, the allocation of land. The inheritance was not merely for individuals but for the continuity of the family line and the collective identity of the tribe.
* **House (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to build," this term primarily denotes a physical dwelling but extends broadly to encompass a family, household, or even a dynasty. In the context of "house of their fathers," it emphasizes the familial unit as the basis for tribal organization and the recipient of the inheritance. It speaks to the communal aspect of the land grant, where the land was given not to isolated individuals but to established family units that formed the larger tribal structure.
* **Received (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** This primitive root means "to take," "to seize," or "to receive." In Numbers 34:14, its usage indicates that these tribes have already actively *taken possession* of their allotted portion. It implies a completed action of appropriation, distinguishing their status from the tribes who are yet to enter and conquer their designated territories west of the Jordan. The verb highlights the active role of the tribes in securing what was granted to them, even as the ultimate source of the inheritance was divine.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the tribe of the children of Reuben according to the house of their fathers":** This initial clause precisely identifies the first of the two full tribes that have already secured their inheritance. The phrase "according to the house of their fathers" profoundly emphasizes the patriarchal and familial foundation of tribal identity and the meticulous method of land allocation. The inheritance was not merely for individuals but for the entire lineage, ensuring the continuity of the tribal identity and its place within the larger Israelite nation.
* **"and the tribe of the children of Gad according to the house of their fathers, have received [their inheritance];":** This clause parallels the first, naming the second full tribe, Gad, and reiterating the same patriarchal basis for their land possession. The verb "have received" (implied for both Reuben and Gad) signifies their completed acquisition and settlement of the Transjordan territory. The KJV's bracketed "their inheritance" accurately infers the implied object, which is explicitly stated in the subsequent clause, reinforcing the notion of a divinely allotted portion.
* **"and half the tribe of Manasseh have received their inheritance:":** This final clause specifies the third group that has already settled east of the Jordan. The "half the tribe of Manasseh" refers to the distinct portion of Manasseh that chose to settle in Bashan and Gilead, separate from the other half that would receive land west of the Jordan. The repetition of "have received their inheritance" serves as a strong, concluding affirmation that these three groups are already settled and established, thereby setting them apart from the tribes for whom the remaining, detailed instructions of Numbers 34 apply.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 34:14 primarily employs **Recapitulation** and functions as a **Parenthetical Statement**. It serves as a concise summary, reiterating information previously detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordan Settlement"), thereby reminding the reader of the unique, pre-settled status of these tribes. The verse functions as a **Parenthetical Statement** within the broader narrative of land division, interrupting the flow of instructions for the western territories to clarify that a significant portion of Israel has already been accounted for. This structural choice ensures clarity and prevents confusion regarding the precise scope of the subsequent detailed boundary descriptions. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the concept "have received their inheritance" (or its equivalent) for each group listed emphatically underscores the completed action and the distinct, settled status of these specific tribes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 34:14, though seemingly an administrative detail, powerfully reinforces the overarching theme of God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises. The "inheritance" (Hebrew: *nachalah*) of land was the tangible manifestation of God's commitment to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, providing a secure and permanent dwelling place for His people. This verse highlights the orderly and meticulous nature of divine provision, demonstrating that God's plan unfolds systematically, ensuring each part of His people receives its allotted portion according to His design. It also subtly underscores the principle of corporate responsibility, as these tribes had to fulfill their part of the agreement—assisting their brethren in the conquest of Canaan—to fully secure their inheritance, reflecting the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship and the interconnectedness of the entire community.

* [Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Moses Gives Transjordan to Reuben, Gad, and Half Manasseh")
* [Joshua 13:8](/joshua/13-8 "Joshua 13:8 - Inheritance of Transjordan Tribes")
* [Deuteronomy 3:18-20](/deuteronomy/3-18-20 "Deuteronomy 3:18-20 - Moses' Charge to the Transjordan Tribes")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 34:14, while deeply rooted in ancient Israel's land distribution, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous care and unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, not just in a broad, general sense, but specifically for each individual and community within His divine plan. Just as He ensured every tribe received its designated portion, God has a unique plan and provision for our lives, an "inheritance" that is both spiritual and practical. This verse also implicitly calls us to embrace communal responsibility. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh, having secured their own blessing and immediate needs, were still obligated by covenant to assist their brethren in conquering the land west of the Jordan. This principle of mutual support, unwavering commitment to a shared vision, and faithfulness to agreements remains vitally important for the church today. We are called to use our blessings, gifts, and resources not solely for our own benefit, but to actively contribute to the flourishing of the wider body of Christ and the advancement of God's kingdom, even when our immediate needs are met. Our individual "inheritances" and blessings are often intricately intertwined with the corporate well-being and mission of God's people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the biblical concept of "inheritance" in Numbers 34:14 deepen our understanding of God's provision and promises in our own lives today?**
* **In what specific ways are we, like the Transjordan tribes, called to fulfill our commitments and actively support others within the body of Christ, even after receiving our own blessings?**
* **How can we intentionally cultivate a greater sense of communal responsibility and solidarity within our faith communities, mirroring the interconnectedness expected of the Israelite tribes?**

### FAQ

**Why were Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh given land east of the Jordan, and what was the significance of this?**

Answer: These tribes were granted land east of the Jordan River (Transjordan) primarily because they possessed a great number of livestock and found the fertile plains of Gilead and Bashan exceptionally suitable for grazing. Their detailed request and Moses's response are recorded in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordan Settlement"). The significance of this arrangement was multifaceted: it demonstrated God's flexible and gracious provision within His overarching plan for the land; it highlighted the importance of tribal identity and economic needs; and, crucially, it underscored the principle of corporate responsibility. Moses granted their request on the strict condition that their fighting men would cross the Jordan with the other tribes and actively assist in the conquest of the land of Canaan before returning to their eastern inheritance. This agreement ensured tribal unity and mutual support in the fulfillment of God's command to possess the entire Promised Land.

**Does this verse imply that the Transjordan tribes were somehow less favored or outside the "Promised Land"?**

Answer: Not necessarily. While the primary "Promised Land" often refers to Canaan proper (west of the Jordan), the Transjordan region was also territory conquered by divine assistance from Sihon and Og, as seen in [Numbers 21](/numbers/21 "Numbers 21 - Victories over Sihon and Og"). The text consistently refers to their eastern settlements as their "inheritance," indicating it was a legitimate, divinely sanctioned portion. However, their geographical location did create some distinctions—both geographical and, at times, cultural—from the tribes west of the Jordan, which occasionally led to challenges in maintaining full unity, as hinted at in passages like [Joshua 22](/joshua/22 "Joshua 22 - The Altar of Witness"). Nevertheless, from the perspective of Numbers 34:14, their inheritance was fully recognized and established by divine decree.

**What is the difference between "inheritance" and "possession" in this context?**

Answer: In the biblical context, "inheritance" (Hebrew: *nachalah*) refers to the divinely allotted portion of land, a heritage given by God. It signifies the inherent right or claim to the land based on God's covenant promise and tribal allocation. "Possession" (often implied by verbs like *laqach* "to take" or *yarash* "to inherit/possess") refers to the actual physical occupation, settlement, and control of that land. Numbers 34:14 states that these tribes "have received" (meaning they have taken possession of) their inheritance, indicating that they have not only been *allotted* it but have actively moved in, settled, and begun to benefit from it. This distinguishes them from the tribes who are yet to receive and possess their portions west of the Jordan, highlighting that the inheritance is the divine gift, while possession is the human act of occupying and benefiting from that gift.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 34:14, with its focus on a divinely appointed "inheritance" and the orderly provision of land for Israel, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Christ. The earthly inheritance of Canaan, though profoundly significant for the nation of Israel, was ultimately a shadow and type of a greater, spiritual reality. Believers in Christ receive an "inheritance" that is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" for them ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). Just as the tribes of Israel received their portion by divine decree and promise, so too are believers "chosen in Him before the foundation of the world" to receive a glorious spiritual inheritance in Christ ([Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ")). This inheritance is not a piece of land but participation in the very life and eternal kingdom of God, secured definitively through the ultimate sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). The communal responsibility seen in the Transjordan tribes' commitment to help their brethren conquer the land foreshadows the profound unity of the body of Christ, where believers, having received their spiritual blessings and gifts, are called to live in mutual service and love, actively building up the church in love ([Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - Building up the Body of Christ")). Ultimately, Christ Himself is the true "rest" and "land" for His people, providing eternal security, abundant life, and a spiritual dwelling place that far surpasses any earthly territory ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 32:33

And Moses gave unto them, [even] to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, [even] the cities of the country round about.

Joshua 14:2

By lot [was] their inheritance, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses, for the nine tribes, and [for] the half tribe.

Joshua 14:3

For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan: but unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them.

Numbers 32:23

But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.

Deuteronomy 3:12

¶ And this land, [which] we possessed at that time, from Aroer, which [is] by the river Arnon, and half mount Gilead, and the cities thereof, gave I unto the Reubenites and to the Gadites.

Deuteronomy 3:17

The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast [thereof], from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.

Joshua 13:8

With whom the Reubenites and the Gadites have received their inheritance, which Moses gave them, beyond Jordan eastward, [even] as Moses the servant of the LORD gave them;