### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gilʻâdîy**, represented by `{{H1569}}`, is a patronymic term meaning a **Gileadite**, or a descendant of Gilad `{{H1568}}`. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically identifies individuals and groups based on their lineage and connection to the patriarch Gilead, a descendant of Manasseh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1569}}` identifies several key figures. The lineage is established in Numbers, which states that from Gilead came the family of the **Gileadites** [[Numbers 26:29]]. This identity is associated with leadership, as both Jephthah the **Gileadite**, a mighty man `{{H1368}}` of valour `{{H2428}}`, and Jair, a **Gileadite**, served as judges over Israel ([[Judges 11:1]], [[Judges 10:3]]). The term also denotes loyalty, most notably through Barzillai the **Gileadite**, who provided aid to King David `{{H1732}}` when he fled `{{H1272}}` from Absalom `{{H53}}` [[2 Samuel 17:27]]. Conversely, the term is also linked to conspiracy, where fifty men of the **Gileadites** joined Pekah `{{H6492}}` to smite `{{H5221}}` the king of Israel [[2 Kings 15:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and significance of the Gileadites:
* `{{H1568}}` **Gilʻâd**: This is the source name, referring to the patriarch who was the son of Machir `{{H4353}}` and grandson of Manasseh `{{H4519}}`, as well as the region east of the Jordan named after him [[Numbers 26:29]].
* `{{H1271}}` **Barzillay**: Meaning "iron-hearted," Barzillai is the most prominent individual identified as a **Gileadite**. His unwavering support for King David during his exile is a defining moment for his character [[2 Samuel 19:31]].
* `{{H3316}}` **Yiphtâch**: Meaning "he will open," Jephthah the **Gileadite** was a leader whose life was marked by his birth as the son `{{H1121}}` of a harlot `{{H802}}`, his military victories, and his tragic vow ([[Judges 11:1]], [[Judges 11:40]]).
### Theological Significance
The identity of the `{{H1569}}` **Gileadite** carries significant weight in the areas of lineage, loyalty, and leadership.
* **Patrilineal Identity:** The term emphasizes the importance of lineage in Israel. The descent from Gilead, son of Machir, is explicitly recorded [[Numbers 26:29]]. This heritage was so significant that a priest `{{H3548}}` who took `{{H3947}}` a wife `{{H802}}` from the daughters of Barzillai the **Gileadite** was called after their name `{{H8034}}` ([[Ezra 2:61]], [[Nehemiah 7:63]]).
* **Covenant Loyalty:** Barzillai the **Gileadite** embodies steadfast loyalty. For his support, David commanded Solomon to show kindness `{{H2617}}` to his sons, ensuring they would eat `{{H398}}` at the king's table `{{H7979}}`, a lasting reward for faithfulness [[1 Kings 2:7]].
* **Divinely Appointed Leadership:** The Gileadites produced leaders for Israel at critical times. Jair the **Gileadite** judged `{{H8199}}` Israel `{{H3478}}` for twenty `{{H6242}}` and two `{{H8147}}` years `{{H8141}}` [[Judges 10:3]], and Jephthah the **Gileadite** was raised up to deliver Israel from the Ammonites [[Judges 11:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1569}}` **Gilʻâdîy** is far more than a simple descriptor of origin. It defines a distinct family line within Israel known for producing memorable and complex individuals. From the valorous judge Jephthah to the loyal friend Barzillai and even the conspirators who joined Pekah, the **Gileadite** identity illustrates a legacy of leadership, loyalty, and conflict that left a lasting mark on the history of Israel.
TRV