### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Gamlîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H1583}}`, means **reward of God**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This name identifies a specific Israelite, Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, who held a position of leadership within the tribe of Manasseh during the wilderness wanderings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all mentions of **Gamlîyʼêl** `{{H1583}}` occur in the book of Numbers and refer to the same individual. He is first introduced as the representative for the tribe of Manasseh among the children of Joseph [[Numbers 1:10]]. His role was significant, as he is described as the **captain** `{{H5387}}` of the children of Manasseh [[Numbers 2:20]] and the leader over the **host** `{{H6635}}` of the tribe [[Numbers 10:23]]. His primary recorded act is presenting an offering on the eighth day for the dedication of the altar, solidifying his status as a **prince** `{{H5387}}` of his people ([[Numbers 7:54]], [[Numbers 7:59]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Gamaliel's identity and role:
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (prince): This title, meaning "an exalted one," is directly applied to Gamaliel, underscoring his position of authority and leadership within the Israelite community [[Numbers 7:54]].
* `{{H4519}}` **Mᵉnashsheh** (Manasseh): This is the tribe that Gamaliel represented. The name means "causing to forget" and identifies the people descended from Joseph's son, Manasseh [[Numbers 1:10]].
* `{{H6301}}` **Pᵉdâhtsûwr** (Pedahzur): The name of Gamaliel's father, meaning "a rock (i.e. God) has ransomed." Gamaliel is identified as the son of Pedahzur in every verse where he is mentioned [[Numbers 2:20]].
* `{{H7133}}` **qorbân** (offering): This word, for something brought near the altar, describes the specific sacrificial present that Gamaliel brought on behalf of his tribe [[Numbers 7:59]].
### Theological Significance
The story of Gamaliel, though brief, carries thematic weight:
* **Structured Leadership:** Gamaliel's designation as **captain** `{{H5387}}` and **prince** `{{H5387}}` over the **tribe** `{{H4294}}` of Manasseh highlights the divinely ordered structure of Israel. Each tribe had an appointed leader responsible for its military and civil organization ([[Numbers 2:20]], [[Numbers 10:23]]).
* **Worship and Obedience:** His participation in the dedication of the altar by bringing a prescribed **sacrifice** `{{H2077}}` of **peace offerings** `{{H8002}}` on the appointed **eighth** `{{H8066}}` **day** `{{H3117}}` demonstrates the role of leadership in guiding the nation's formal worship ([[Numbers 7:54]], [[Numbers 7:59]]).
* **Theological Naming:** The names of Gamaliel ("reward of God") and his father Pedahzur ("a rock has ransomed") embed core theological concepts into the identity of Israel's leaders. They serve as a reminder of God's character as a provider and redeemer.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1583}}` **Gamlîyʼêl** is not just a name but a marker of a specific leader in a crucial period of Israel's formation. As the prince of Manasseh, Gamaliel represents the importance of tribal identity, organized leadership, and obedient worship. His name, along with his father's, weaves the themes of divine reward and redemption directly into the fabric of Israel's nascent leadership structure.
TRV