Gilead
Gilead in the Bible — a son of Machir, grandson of Manasseh (NUM 26:29). Gilead belonged to the tribe of Reuben. Referenced in 9 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “the heap or mass of testimony”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Reuben
- Scripture References
- 9 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 8 connections
Biography
Gilead was a male member of the tribe of Reuben, distinguished as a son of Machir and grandson of Manasseh. He is noted in Scripture as the progenitor of the Gileadites, a clan identified in Numbers 26:29. His lineage situates him within the broader family of the Israelite tribes, emphasizing his role in the genealogical records.
Names & Titles
The name Gilead means 'perhaps monument of stones,' indicating a possible symbolic or geographical significance. This proper name is not recorded as being given directly by God but holds meaning that may reflect a memorial or landmark context within the biblical narrative.
Family
Scripture records Gilead as the son of Machir, who is the grandson of Manasseh, confirming his place in the tribal genealogy. Additionally, inferred relationships include several descendants such as Iezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Shemida, and Hepher, as well as a brother named Hammolecheth, illustrating a well-documented family line within the tribe of Reuben.
Significance
Gilead's significance lies primarily in his genealogical role as the ancestor of the Gileadites, a distinct clan within the tribe of Reuben. His lineage is carefully preserved in the book of Numbers, underscoring the importance of tribal heritage and God's providential care in preserving Israel's family lines. This genealogical record reflects God's faithfulness in establishing and sustaining His covenant people through successive generations.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- גִּלְעָ֑ד
- Transliteration
- giləad
- Meaning
- [perhaps] monument of stones
- Greek
- Γαλααδ
- Reference
- NUM 26:29
- Strong's
- H1568
Notes
the Gileadites (NUM 26:29)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gilead in the Bible?
Gilead was a male member of the tribe of Reuben, distinguished as a son of Machir and grandson of Manasseh. He is noted in Scripture as the progenitor of the Gileadites, a clan identified in Numbers 26:29. His lineage situates him within the broader family of the Israelite tribes, emphasizing his role in the genealogical records.
What does the name Gilead mean?
The name Gilead means “the heap or mass of testimony” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.