patronymically from גִּלְעָד; a Giladite or descendant of Gilad; Gileadite.
Transliteration:Gilʻâdîy
Pronunciation:ghil-aw-dee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1569}}` (Gilʻâdîy) is a gentilic or patronymic adjective/noun, directly derived from `{{H1568}}` (Gilʻâd). Its fundamental meaning denotes an individual associated with "Gilead." This association can be twofold:
1. **Patronymic:** A descendant of Gilead, who was the son of Machir and grandson of Manasseh ([[Numbers 26:29]]). In this sense, it identifies a specific clan within the tribe of Manasseh.
2. **Geographical:** An inhabitant of the geographical region known as Gilead, located east of the Jordan River. This broader usage encompasses anyone residing in or originating from that territory.
Semantically, `{{H1569}}` thus functions to establish a precise tribal, familial, and/or regional identity, linking individuals to a specific lineage and a significant portion of the Transjordanian landscape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1569}}` appears numerous times throughout the Hebrew Bible, primarily in historical and genealogical texts. Its usage consistently delineates identity:
* **Genealogical Identification:** In [[Numbers 26:29-30]], the "Gileadites" are explicitly named as a clan (mishpachah) descended from Gilead, son of Machir, son of Manasseh. This establishes their direct patriarchal lineage and their place within the broader tribal structure of Israel. Similar genealogical references appear in [[Joshua 17:1]] and [[1 Chronicles 2:21]].
* **Judges and Leaders:** Individuals identified as "Gileadites" played significant roles in Israel's history. Jair the Gileadite served as a judge ([[Judges 10:3]]), and Jephthah, though born of a harlot, was also a Gileadite who delivered Israel from the Ammonites ([[Judges 11:1]]). These instances highlight the emergence of leadership from this region.
* **Distinct Regional Identity:** Perhaps the most striking illustration of the "Gileadite" identity comes from [[Judges 12:4-6]]. During the conflict between Jephthah's Gileadites and the Ephraimites, the Gileadites were able to identify Ephraimite fugitives by their inability to pronounce the word "Shibboleth" correctly. This passage underscores a strong, distinctive regional and even linguistic identity, indicating a unique cultural marker that set them apart from other Israelite tribes.
* **Loyalty and Support:** Barzillai the Gileadite is a notable figure who demonstrated profound loyalty and provided crucial support to King David during Absalom's rebellion ([[2 Samuel 17:27]]). David's subsequent command to Solomon to show kindness to Barzillai's descendants ([[1 Kings 2:7]]) reflects the high regard for his faithfulness.
* **Later Historical Figures:** The term continues to appear in later historical accounts, such as Pekah, son of Remaliah, who is identified as a Gileadite ([[2 Kings 15:25]]), illustrating the enduring presence and involvement of people from this region in the national narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
* `{{H1568}}` (Gilʻâd): This is the direct root, referring to both the patriarch Gilead and the geographical region. Understanding the significance of Gilead – its fertile lands, strategic location east of the Jordan, and its association with balm ([[Jeremiah 8:22]]) – is essential for a full comprehension of the "Gileadite" identity.
* `{{H4519}}` (Manasseh) and `{{H4353}}` (Machir): The primary tribal affiliation of the Gileadites is through Manasseh, specifically the clan of Machir. This tribal lineage dictates their inheritance and place within the twelve tribes of Israel.
* **Gentilic Nouns:** `{{H1569}}` functions as a gentilic, similar to other terms that denote origin or tribal belonging, such as `{{H3064}}` (Yehûdî, "Judean") or `{{H669}}` (ʼEphrayimî, "Ephraimite"). These terms highlight the diverse yet interconnected nature of ancient Israel's tribal structure.
* **Regionalism and Tribalism:** The concept of a distinct regional identity, as seen in the "Shibboleth" incident, points to the powerful forces of tribalism and regionalism that shaped the social and political landscape of ancient Israel. While united under a single God, internal distinctions remained potent.
### Theological Significance
The "Gileadite" identity, though seemingly specific, carries several theological implications:
* **Divine Providence in Inheritance:** The allocation of Gilead as an inheritance for the half-tribe of Manasseh ([[Numbers 32]]) demonstrates God's faithful provision for His people, ensuring each tribe and clan received their designated portion of the promised land. This underscores the meticulous nature of God's covenant fulfillment.
* **Diversity within Unity:** The distinct character of the Gileadites, particularly their unique dialect, illustrates the rich diversity within the covenant community of Israel. God works through and raises up individuals from all tribes and regions, demonstrating that His purposes are not confined to a single dominant group. This diversity foreshadows the multi-ethnic composition of the New Covenant Church.
* **Faithfulness and Moral Character:** Figures like Barzillai ([[2 Samuel 17]]) exemplify the potential for deep personal loyalty and integrity among the Gileadites. Their actions reflect a commitment that transcends mere tribal affiliation, pointing to a moral character cultivated within the covenant relationship with God.
* **Consequences of Internal Strife:** The tragic conflict between the Gileadites and Ephraimites ([[Judges 12]]) serves as a somber reminder of the destructive nature of inter-tribal jealousy, pride, and lack of reconciliation within God's people. It highlights the constant need for unity, humility, and adherence to God's law to prevent internal fragmentation.
* **God's Sovereignty in Leadership:** The raising of Gileadite judges like Jair and Jephthah underscores God's sovereign choice of leaders from unexpected or less prominent regions, demonstrating that His anointing is not limited by human perceptions of status or geographical location.
### Summary
The term `{{H1569}}` (Gilʻâdîy) signifies an individual either as a direct descendant of the patriarch Gilead or as an inhabitant of the fertile Transjordanian region of Gilead. This designation carries significant weight, encapsulating aspects of tribal lineage, geographical belonging, and distinct cultural identity within ancient Israel. From genealogical records to pivotal roles in military and political history, "Gileadites" contributed significantly to the narrative of God's people. Theologically, their story reflects themes of divine inheritance, the beautiful diversity within God's unified nation, the importance of faithfulness and loyalty, and the perennial challenges of internal division. Understanding the "Gileadite" identity provides a deeper appreciation for the complex, multifaceted tapestry of God's interaction with His chosen people.
TRV