### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Mâkîyr `{{H4353}}` functions primarily as a proper noun in the biblical text. Its etymological root is derived from mâkar (מָכַר), meaning "to sell" or "to trade." Thus, the base definition "salesman" or "one who sells" provides insight into the potential meaning or background of the name. However, in its biblical usage, Mâkîyr refers almost exclusively to a specific individual, the firstborn son of Manasseh, and by extension, to his descendants. The semantic range is therefore tightly constrained to this proper name, with its etymological connection serving as a historical or characteristic hint rather than a descriptive term for the biblical figure himself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Mâkîyr `{{H4353}}` appears numerous times in the Hebrew Bible, predominantly in genealogical lists and accounts of tribal settlement. The most significant figure bearing this name is the firstborn son of Manasseh, the son of Joseph.
* [[Genesis 50:23]]: Joseph lives long enough to see "the children of Machir the son of Manasseh," indicating Makir's birth and the continuation of Joseph's lineage through his grandson.
* [[Numbers 26:29]]: In the census of the Israelites, Makir is identified as the only son of Manasseh, and his descendants are called the Machirites, from whom Gilead descended. This establishes Makir as the patriarch of a significant clan within Manasseh.
* [[Numbers 32:39-40]]: This passage is crucial, as it records that the "children of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead and captured it, and dispossessed the Amorites who were in it." Moses then gives Gilead to Makir, signifying the tribe's initiative and the divine sanction of their inheritance east of the Jordan.
* [[Deuteronomy 3:15]]: Moses reiterates the allocation of Gilead to Makir, reinforcing the tribal claim to this territory.
* [[Joshua 13:31]] and [[Joshua 17:1-3]]: These passages detail the inheritance of the half-tribe of Manasseh, specifically mentioning that "to Machir, the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead, were allotted Gilead and Bashan, because he was a man of war." This highlights the martial prowess associated with Makir and his descendants.
* [[Judges 5:14]]: In the Song of Deborah, Makir is invoked in a context of battle: "From Machir came down commanders, and from Zebulun those who handle the staff of the director." This poetic reference underscores the tribe of Makir's participation and leadership in Israel's military efforts.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:21]] and [[1 Chronicles 7:14-17]]: These chronicler passages provide further genealogical details, linking Makir's descendants to other Israelite families, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the tribes.
It is important to note that a different individual named Makir, son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, is mentioned in [[2 Samuel 9:4-5]] and [[2 Samuel 17:27]] as one who showed kindness to Mephibosheth and provided aid to David. While bearing the same name, this is a distinct person from the patriarchal Makir of Manasseh.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for Mâkîyr `{{H4353}}` is its root, mâkar (מָכַר) `{{H4376}}`, meaning "to sell" or "to trade." While the proper name itself does not carry this active meaning, the etymological link is foundational to its formation.
Contextually, Mâkîyr is intimately connected with:
* **Manasseh** (מְנַשֶּׁה) `{{H4519}}`: His father, establishing his lineage within one of the largest tribes of Israel.
* **Gilead** (גִּלְעָד) `{{H1568}}`: His son, and the significant Transjordan territory that became the inheritance of Makir's descendants. The phrase "Machir the father of Gilead" is a recurring descriptor.
* **Tribal Inheritance**: The concept of land distribution and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham's descendants through the allocation of specific territories, particularly the Transjordan region.
* **Warfare and Leadership**: As seen in the reference in Joshua and Judges, Makir and his descendants were associated with military strength and leadership, playing an active role in the defense and expansion of Israelite territory.
### Theological Significance
The figure of Makir `{{H4353}}` and his descendants holds several points of theological significance:
Firstly, Makir represents the **divine faithfulness in covenant fulfillment**. His lineage, meticulously traced, demonstrates God's commitment to the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, particularly regarding the multiplication of their descendants and the inheritance of the land. The settlement of Gilead by the Machirites is a tangible manifestation of God's provision and the fulfillment of the land promise.
Secondly, the description of Makir as "a man of war" ([[Joshua 17:1]]) and the mention of "commanders" coming from Makir in the Song of Deborah ([[Judges 5:14]]) highlight the **divine empowerment for conquest and defense**. God equipped and led His people in battle, and the tribe of Makir was a significant participant in these divinely sanctioned endeavors, contributing to the establishment and security of Israel in the promised land. Their initiative in conquering Gilead ([[Numbers 32:39-40]]) showcases a proactive faith in claiming the inheritance.
Finally, Makir's prominence within the tribe of Manasseh, despite being a grandson of Joseph, underscores the **importance of tribal identity and structure** within God's plan for Israel. The detailed genealogies, including Makir's, serve not merely as historical records but as theological statements about God's ordering of His people and the preservation of distinct family lines through which His purposes unfold.
### Summary
Mâkîyr `{{H4353}}` is a significant proper noun in the Hebrew Bible, primarily identifying the firstborn son of Manasseh and grandson of Joseph. While its etymological root means "salesman," its biblical usage points to a key patriarchal figure. The descendants of Makir, known as the Machirites, played a crucial role in the conquest and settlement of the Transjordan region, specifically Gilead. These narratives underscore God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises of land and progeny. Furthermore, the association of Makir's tribe with military prowess and leadership, as evidenced in the Song of Deborah, highlights their active participation in God's work of establishing and defending Israel. Makir thus stands as a testament to divine provision, tribal strength, and the meticulous unfolding of God's plan through the generations of Israel.
TRV