### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mâkîyr**, represented by `{{H4353}}`, primarily names two individuals in the biblical narrative. Its base definition is **salesman; Makir, an Israelite; Machir**. It appears **22 times** across **20 unique verses**, with most references pointing to the powerful firstborn son of Manasseh who became a key patriarch.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4353}}` is most prominently used to identify **Machir**, the son of Manasseh and grandson of Joseph [[Genesis 50:23]]. As the "father of Gilead," he was a formidable "man of war" whose descendants were given the lands of Gilead and Bashan as their inheritance [[Joshua 17:1]]. His lineage is central to the allocation of territory, with Moses giving Gilead directly to Machir ([[Numbers 32:40]], [[Deuteronomy 3:15]]). A second individual, Machir the son of Ammiel, is noted for his loyalty to the house of David. He sheltered Saul's grandson Mephibosheth in Lodebar [[2 Samuel 9:4-5]] and later brought provisions to David during his flight from Absalom [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of Machir in the scriptures:
* `{{H4519}}` **Mᵉnashsheh** (causing to forget; Menashsheh): As Machir's father, this name establishes his direct lineage from Joseph's firstborn son and places his family within the tribe of Manasseh [[Numbers 27:1]].
* `{{H1568}}` **Gilʻâd** (Gilad, a region East of the Jordan; also the name of three Israelites): This refers to both the son that Machir begat and the territory his descendants inherited, linking the person directly to the land ([[Numbers 26:29]], [[Joshua 17:1]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This term is fundamental to tracing Machir's lineage through his son Gilead and grandson Hepher to his great-grandson Zelophehad [[Numbers 27:1]].
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (a daughter): This word becomes critical in the narrative of Machir's descendants, as his great-grandson Zelophehad had only daughters, whose case established important inheritance laws ([[Joshua 17:3]], [[1 Chronicles 7:15]]).
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (a family, i.e. circle of relatives): This term defines the "family of the Machirites" and the "families of the children of Gilead," showing the clan structure that descended from Machir ([[Numbers 26:29]], [[Numbers 36:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H4353}}` is demonstrated in several key areas:
* **Patriarch of a Warrior Clan:** Machir is established as the head of a powerful and militant family. He is called a "man of war," and his descendants were strong enough to take Gilead from the Amorites ([[Joshua 17:1]], [[Numbers 32:39]]). His clan also produced "governors" [[Judges 5:14]].
* **Foundation of Inheritance:** The lineage of Machir is the basis for significant land allotments east of the Jordan [[Joshua 13:31]]. Furthermore, the story of his descendant Zelophehad and his daughters sets a major legal precedent for female inheritance in Israel ([[Numbers 27:1]], [[Numbers 36:1]]).
* **A Legacy of Loyalty:** Through Machir son of Ammiel, the name is also associated with faithfulness and provision. He protected the last of Saul's line and supported David, the rightful king, in a time of great distress ([[2 Samuel 9:5]], [[2 Samuel 17:27]]).
* **Generational Importance:** The connection to Joseph is highlighted when Machir's children are "brought up upon Joseph's knees," signifying their acceptance and importance within the patriarchal lineage from the very beginning [[Genesis 50:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4353}}` is more than just a name; it represents legacy and strength. Through Machir the son of Manasseh, it signifies a foundational leader whose descendants shaped the military and legal landscape of ancient Israel. Through Machir the son of Ammiel, it embodies loyalty and kindness. The name is consistently tied to themes of inheritance, family structure, military might, and steadfast faithfulness within the Old Testament.
TRV