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.

1 CHRONICLES 5:23KJV
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1 Chronicles 5:23 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 5:23 mean?

1 Chronicles 5:23 describes how the descendants of the half tribe of Manasseh lived in a large area of land, stretching from Bashan to Baalhermon, Senir, and Mount Hermon, and how their numbers grew in that region. The verse highlights both their settlement and their increase in population across this broad northern territory.

This verse is part of a historical record, written to document the tribes of Israel and where they lived after entering the Promised Land. The focus is on the half tribe of Manasseh, who settled east of the Jordan River. The verse names specific locations to show the extent of their territory, emphasizing their growth and presence in a significant part of the land.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 5:23

  • "children" (בְּנֵי, bənê): This word means "sons" or "descendants," making it clear that the verse is talking about the people who came from the half tribe of Manasseh, not just immediate children.
  • "increased" (רָבָה, ravah): This word means "to become many" or "to multiply." It highlights that the group did not just settle but also grew significantly in number, suggesting prosperity or blessing in that area.
  • "Bashan" (בָּשָׁן, Bashan), "Baalhermon" (בַּעַל חֶרְמוֹן, Baal-ḥermon), "Senir" (שְׂנִיר, Senir), and "mount Hermon" (הַר חֶרְמוֹן, har ḥermon): These place names mark the boundaries of their land. Mentioning all four shows the wide range of their territory, from well-known regions to more specific local landmarks.

Why 1 Chronicles 5:23 matters

  • This verse helps clarify the geography of ancient Israel, showing exactly where the half tribe of Manasseh lived and how far their territory stretched.
  • By noting their increase in numbers, the verse connects to earlier promises of growth for the tribes of Israel, showing that this promise was being fulfilled for Manasseh.
  • The verse sets up the context for later events in the chapter, including conflicts and changes in the region, by establishing who lived there and how strong they had become.