The Hebrew name Pᵉdâhtsûwr, represented by H6301, means a rock (i.e. God) has ransomed. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This name belongs to a specific Israelite and is not used as a common noun. Its significance is tied directly to the person it identifies within the Israelite community.
In the biblical narrative, H6301 is used exclusively to identify the father of Gamaliel, a leader from the tribe of Manasseh. All occurrences are found in the book of Numbers during the census and organization of the Israelite tribes in the wilderness. Pedahtsur is mentioned to establish the lineage of his son, Gamaliel, who was appointed as a captain and prince of the children of Manasseh (Numbers 2:20, Numbers 7:54). His name also appears in the context of the offerings for the dedication of the tabernacle, where his son presented a substantial sacrifice on behalf of the tribe Numbers 7:59.
Several related words help establish the context and role associated with Pedahtsur's lineage:
- H1583 Gamlîyʼêl (reward of God; Gamliel, an Israelite): Pedahtsur is known only as the father of Gamaliel, who was the leader of the tribe of Manasseh Numbers 1:10.
- H4519 Mᵉnashsheh (causing to forget; Menashsheh): This is the tribe that Pedahtsur's son Gamaliel was appointed to lead Numbers 2:20.
- H5387 nâsîyʼ (an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik; captain, chief, cloud, governor, prince, ruler, vapour): This title is given to Gamaliel, son of Pedahtsur, identifying him as the prince of the children of Manasseh Numbers 7:54.
- H4294 maṭṭeh (a branch; figuratively, a tribe; also a rod): Gamaliel was the leader over the tribe of Manasseh, connecting Pedahtsur's family directly to Israel's tribal structure Numbers 10:23.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is essential to Pedahtsur's identity, as he is always referred to in the phrase "Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur" Numbers 1:10.
The narrative weight of H6301 is defined by its patriarchal function and connection to tribal leadership.
- Establishing Lineage: Pedahtsur's primary role in scripture is to provide the paternal lineage for Gamaliel, a key leader appointed during the wilderness period. This highlights the importance of fatherhood in establishing identity and authority Numbers 1:10.
- Leadership of Manasseh: Through his son, Pedahtsur is directly linked to the leadership of a major tribe. Gamaliel served as the captain over the host of the tribe of Manasseh Numbers 10:23.
- Participation in Worship: The name is associated with the dedication of the tabernacle, as Pedahtsur's son brought an offering H7133 and sacrifice H2077 of peace offerings H8002, including oxen H1241, rams H352, he goats H6260, and lambs H3532 Numbers 7:59.
In summary, H6301 is the proper name of an Israelite whose identity is inseparable from his son, Gamaliel. While the name itself carries the powerful theological concept of divine ransom, the person Pedahtsur is significant for his role as the father of a designated prince of Manasseh. His appearances in the book of Numbers underscore the importance of lineage in the structure, leadership, and worship of ancient Israel during its formative years.
TRV