King James Version
What Does Numbers 32:40 Mean?
“And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein.”
Context
38
And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded. gave: Heb. they called by names the names of the cities
39
And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead, and took it, and dispossessed the Amorite which was in it.
40
And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein.
41
And Jair the son of Manasseh went and took the small towns thereof, and called them Havothjair.
42
And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise CommentaryChapter 32
Chapter Outline
The tribes of Reuben and Gad request an inheritance on the east of Jordan.(1-5)
Moses reproves the Reubenites and Gadites.(6-15)
They explain their views, Moses consents.(16-27)
They take possession of the land to the east of Jordan.(28-42)
**Verses 1-5**
Here is a proposal made by the Reubenites and Gadites, that the land lately conquered might be allotted to them. Two things common in the world might lead these tribes to make this choice; the lust of the eye, and the pride of life. There was much amiss in the principle they went upon; they consulted their own private convenience more than the public good. Thus to the present time, many seek their own things more than the things of Jesus Christ; and are led by worldly interests and advantages to take up short of the heavenly Canaan.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 32:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 32:40
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge