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גַּמְלִיאֵל (gam.li.el)

gam.li.el

Gamaliel

H1583 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 5 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
5 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Gamaliel, or גַּמְלִיאֵל in Hebrew, translates to "reward of God." It appears five times in the Old Testament, all within the book of Numbers. The sources identify him as the son of Pedahzur and the appointed leader of the tribe of Manasseh during the wilderness wanderings.

His name surfaces most prominently in the census records and the organization of the tribes around the Tabernacle (Numbers 1:10; 2:20; 7:54). In these contexts, Gamaliel represents the administrative and spiritual authority vested in the heads of Israel’s families. The meaning of his name, "reward of God," stands as a fitting title for one who guided his people through the desert journey under divine provision.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Gamaliel carries a gentle promise: "reward of God." In the wilderness, this title belonged to the leader of Manasseh, a tribe that had to trust God for daily bread and shelter in a barren land. His role was not just administrative but deeply spiritual, as he helped organize the camp around the Tabernacle. This reminds us that God often places people in positions of responsibility not for their own glory, but to guide others through difficult seasons.

When we face our own desert journeys, it is easy to feel unseen or unappreciated. Yet, Gamaliel’s story shows that faithful leadership and quiet obedience are seen by God. He did not seek the spotlight; he simply served his people according to God’s arrangement. This offers comfort: your efforts, however small they seem, are part of a larger divine plan.

Ultimately, the true reward is not found in human recognition but in walking with God. Whether you are leading a team or supporting others from behind the scenes, remember that God sees your faithfulness. He rewards those who seek to honor Him, even when the path seems long and uncertain. Let this encourage you to keep trusting His provision today.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Gamaliel4×
  • [was] Gamaliel1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • גַּמְלִיאֵ֖ל5×

Key Verses

  • Numbers 1:10
    Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim: Elishama the son of Ammihud; of Manasseh: Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

    This verse establishes Gamaliel’s identity as the appointed leader of Manasseh during the initial census, highlighting God’s sovereign choice in organizing His people.

  • Numbers 2:20
    “Next to him shall be the tribe of Manasseh. The prince of the children of Manasseh shall be Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

    Here, Gamaliel is positioned next to the central camp, showing that his tribe held a place of honor and proximity to God’s presence.

  • Numbers 7:54
    On the eighth day Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh,

    Gamaliel brings his offering on the eighth day, demonstrating consistent devotion and participation in the communal worship of Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Gamaliel mean?

The name Gamaliel translates from Hebrew as "reward of God." It appears in the Old Testament primarily in the book of Numbers, where it identifies a leader of the tribe of Manasseh.

Who was Gamaliel in the Bible?

Gamaliel was the son of Pedahzur and served as the prince or leader of the tribe of Manasseh during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. He is mentioned in census records and descriptions of the camp's arrangement around the Tabernacle.

Why is Gamaliel significant?

His significance lies in his role as a faithful leader who helped organize God’s people. By standing next to the Tabernacle and bringing offerings, he exemplified obedience and service to God during a critical time in Israel's history.

Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)

Numbers 5 verses
Numbers 1:10

Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim: Elishama the son of Ammihud; of Manasseh: Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

Numbers 2:20

“Next to him shall be the tribe of Manasseh. The prince of the children of Manasseh shall be Gamaliel the son of…

Numbers 7:54

On the eighth day Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh,

Numbers 7:59

and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…

Numbers 10:23

Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur was over the army of the tribe of the children of Manasseh.