1 Chronicles 5:9

And eastward he inhabited unto the entering in of the wilderness from the river Euphrates: because their cattle were multiplied in the land of Gilead.

And eastward {H4217} he inhabited {H3427} unto the entering {H935} in of the wilderness {H4057} from the river {H5104} Euphrates {H6578}: because their cattle {H4735} were multiplied {H7235} in the land {H776} of Gilead {H1568}.

while to the east he occupied territory that extended to the beginning of the desert as one comes from the Euphrates River; because their cattle multiplied in the land of Gil'ad.

They also settled in the east as far as the edge of the desert that extends to the Euphrates River, because their livestock had increased in the land of Gilead.

and eastward he dwelt even unto the entrance of the wilderness from the river Euphrates, because their cattle were multiplied in the land of Gilead.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:9

1 Chronicles 5:9 provides a brief but significant detail about the expansion of the tribe of Reuben, one of the Israelite tribes, specifically explaining the reason for their eastward territorial growth. This verse is part of a larger genealogical and historical record found in 1 Chronicles, which often emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises regarding land and the prosperity of His people.

Context

This verse is situated within the genealogies of the transjordanian tribes – Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These tribes, as recorded in Numbers 32, chose to settle on the east side of the Jordan River due to the abundance of pastureland suitable for their vast livestock. The Chronicler, in detailing their settlements, highlights the extent of their habitation. The mention of the "river Euphrates" points to the expansive, ideal boundaries of Israel's promised land, as outlined in the covenant God made with Abraham (Genesis 15:18). While the Reubenites likely did not directly settle all the way to the Euphrates, the verse suggests their influence and grazing lands extended significantly eastward into the wilderness leading towards that major river, indicating a period of considerable prosperity and reach.

Key Themes

  • Territorial Expansion: The primary theme is the physical growth and spread of the tribe of Reuben beyond their initial inherited boundaries. This expansion signifies a period of strength and flourishing for the tribe, as they needed more land to sustain their growing wealth.
  • Divine Blessing and Prosperity: The explicit reason for their expansion—"because their cattle were multiplied"—underscores God's blessing. In ancient Israel, a significant increase in livestock was a direct sign of divine favor and economic well-being. This multiplication naturally led to the necessity of acquiring more grazing land.
  • Fulfillment of Prophetic Boundaries: The reference to the "river Euphrates" subtly connects this historical event to God's ancient promise of land to Abraham, whose descendants would possess territory stretching to that great river. Though perhaps not direct settlement, the Reubenites' extensive pastoral activities reaching towards these vast borders illustrate a partial realization of God's overarching plan for His people's inheritance.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "their cattle were multiplied" translates the Hebrew ravah miqnehem (רָבָה מִקְנֵהֶם). The verb ravah means "to be great, to be numerous, to multiply," emphasizing the significant increase in their numbers. The noun miqneh refers broadly to all forms of livestock, including sheep, goats, and cattle, which represented the primary form of wealth and sustenance for pastoral societies like the Reubenites. This highlights that their prosperity was directly tied to their abundant herds in the fertile "land of Gilead."

Practical Application

While detailing an ancient tribal movement, 1 Chronicles 5:9 offers timeless insights:

  • God's Provision: This verse reminds us that God is a provider who can bless abundantly, sometimes leading to circumstances that require us to expand our horizons or adapt to new opportunities. The multiplication of the Reubenites' cattle was a clear sign of God's tangible favor.
  • Stewardship of Blessings: The Reubenites' need for more land due to their growing herds illustrates the principle of stewardship. When God blesses us with increased resources, talents, or influence, we are called to manage them wisely and seek ways to expand their impact for good.
  • Trusting God's Plan: The movement towards the Euphrates, a boundary promised by God, can be seen as an act of living into God's larger design for His people. Similarly, we are encouraged to trust in God's ultimate plans and purposes, even as we navigate the practicalities of our daily lives.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 22:8 (4 votes)

    And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents, and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren.

  • Joshua 22:9 (4 votes)

    And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which [is] in the land of Canaan, to go unto the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed, according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses.