1 Chronicles 5:23

And the children of the half tribe of Manasseh dwelt in the land: they increased from Bashan unto Baalhermon and Senir, and unto mount Hermon.

And the children {H1121} of the half {H2677} tribe {H7626} of Manasseh {H4519} dwelt {H3427} in the land {H776}: they increased {H7235} from Bashan {H1316} unto Baalhermon {H1179} and Senir {H8149}, and unto mount {H2022} Hermon {H2768}.

The descendants of the half-tribe of M'nasheh lived and increased in the territory from Bashan to Ba'al-Hermon, S'nir and Mount Hermon.

Now the people of the half-tribe of Manasseh were numerous. They settled in the land from Bashan to Baal-hermon (that is, Senir, also known as Mount Hermon).

And the children of the half-tribe of Manasseh dwelt in the land: they increased from Bashan unto Baal-hermon and Senir and mount Hermon.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 5:23 provides a geographical and historical snapshot of the eastern half-tribe of Manasseh, highlighting their extensive territory and population growth in the land east of the Jordan River.

Context

This verse is found within the extensive genealogies and tribal accounts that comprise the early chapters of 1 Chronicles. Specifically, Chapter 5 focuses on the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who chose to settle in the fertile Transjordan region rather than west of the Jordan with the majority of Israel. This section details their lineage, settlements, and significant events, including their military prowess and eventual exile. Verse 23 pinpoints the northern extent of the Manassite territory, emphasizing their prosperity and territorial expansion.

Key Themes

  • Territorial Expansion and Prosperity: The phrase "they increased" signifies both a growth in population and a successful expansion of their dwelling area. This indicates God's blessing upon the tribe, allowing them to occupy a significant and productive region.
  • Geographical Significance: The mention of "Bashan unto Baalhermon and Senir, and unto mount Hermon" precisely delineates the northern boundary of their extensive territory. Bashan was renowned for its rich pastures and fertile land, while Mount Hermon (including its associated peaks like Baalhermon and Senir) was a prominent and imposing landmark, signifying the northernmost reach of their influence. This vastness underscores the blessing of the land given to them.
  • Fulfillment of Promise: The successful settlement and growth of the tribes in their allotted lands were a tangible fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Israel regarding the land, as seen in Genesis 15:18. The half-tribe of Manasseh, along with Reuben and Gad, settled east of the Jordan River, a decision recorded earlier in Israel's history.

Linguistic Insights

The names "Baalhermon" and "Senir" are recognized as alternative names or specific peaks within the broader Mount Hermon range. For example, Deuteronomy 3:9 identifies Senir as the Sidonian name for Hermon. This precision in naming geographical features highlights the chronicler's detailed knowledge of the land and the specific regions occupied by the tribes. The Hebrew word for "increased" (ืจึธื‘ึธื”, ravah) implies multiplication, abundance, and becoming numerous, indicating a flourishing condition for the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Practical Application

While 1 Chronicles 5:23 may seem like a mere geographical detail, it offers several enduring insights:

  • God's Faithfulness: The verse stands as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even down to the specifics of tribal boundaries and prosperity. It reminds us that God's word is reliable and His plans unfold precisely.
  • Significance of History: The detailed record of tribal inheritances and growth underscores the importance of history in understanding God's ongoing work with His people. Every detail, even seemingly minor geographical notes, contributes to the larger narrative of His covenant and blessing.
  • Blessing and Responsibility: The extensive territory and prosperity of Manasseh were a divine blessing, but they also came with the responsibility to remain faithful to God. This balance of blessing and responsibility is a recurring theme throughout biblical history. Mount Hermon, a prominent peak, is also referenced in Psalm 133:3 for its refreshing dew, symbolizing blessing and unity.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 3:8 (3 votes)

    And we took at that time out of the hand of the two kings of the Amorites the land that [was] on this side Jordan, from the river of Arnon unto mount Hermon;

  • Deuteronomy 3:9 (3 votes)

    ([Which] Hermon the Sidonians call Sirion; and the Amorites call it Shenir;)

  • Song Of Solomon 4:8 (3 votes)

    ยถ Come with me from Lebanon, [my] spouse, with me from Lebanon: look from the top of Amana, from the top of Shenir and Hermon, from the lions' dens, from the mountains of the leopards.

  • Psalms 133:3 (2 votes)

    As the dew of Hermon, [and as the dew] that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, [even] life for evermore.

  • Joshua 13:11 (2 votes)

    And Gilead, and the border of the Geshurites and Maachathites, and all mount Hermon, and all Bashan unto Salcah;

  • Joshua 13:29 (2 votes)

    And Moses gave [inheritance] unto the half tribe of Manasseh: and [this] was [the possession] of the half tribe of the children of Manasseh by their families.

  • Joshua 13:31 (2 votes)

    And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining] unto the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.