מָכִיר (ma.khir)
ma.khir
Machir
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 20 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Machir, meaning "sold," identifies two distinct figures in the Old Testament who share a common heritage through the tribe of Manasseh. The first is the eldest son of Manasseh and an Aramean concubine, mentioned prominently when Jacob blesses his grandsons in Genesis 50:23. He becomes the progenitor of a large family line that includes Gilead, Peresh, and Sheresh.
A second Machir appears centuries later as the son of Ammiel, a powerful chief in the Transjordan region. This descendant rendered essential services to King Saul and later to David, providing supplies during times of crisis as recorded in 2 Samuel 9 and 17. The name also gives rise to the adjective "Machirite," used to describe his clan in genealogical lists found in Numbers and Chronicles.
Though the meaning "sold" might suggest a transactional origin, the biblical narrative emphasizes loyalty and provision rather than commerce. Both individuals are remembered for their roles in sustaining Israel during critical periods, linking the early patriarchal era with the establishment of the monarchy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Machir appears in Scripture not as a title for God or a theological concept, but as a human identifier rooted in family lineage and loyalty. In Genesis, we see Machir, son of Manasseh, welcomed into Joseph’s household, where his children are born on Joseph’s knees. This image speaks to the deep bonds of kinship and the care older generations take in nurturing the young. It reminds us that faith is often passed down through family ties and personal relationships, creating a legacy of trust that spans generations.
Later, another Machir serves as a loyal supporter to King David during times of crisis. His home becomes a refuge for Mephibosheth, showing how ordinary people can play vital roles in sustaining God’s people. This word highlights the value of provision and steadfastness. It encourages us to consider how our own families and communities might be places where we offer support, whether through simple acts of kindness or by standing firm in our commitments to others.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 20 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Makir15×
- and/ Makir3×
- to/ Makir2×
- of/ Makir1×
- and/ to/ Makir1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מָכִיר֙4×
- מָכִ֥יר3×
- מָכִ֣יר3×
- מָכִ֖יר3×
- מָכִ֧יר1×
- מָכִ֗יר1×
- לְ/מָכִיר֩1×
- לְ/מָכִיר֙1×
- לְ/מָכִ֖יר1×
- וּ/מָכִ֤יר1×
- וּ/מָכִ֞יר1×
- וּ/מָכִ֖יר1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 50:23
Joseph saw Ephraim’s children to the third generation. The children also of Machir, the son of Manasseh, were born on Joseph’s knees.
This verse highlights the intimate bond between Joseph and his grandson's family, showing how Machir’s lineage was cherished and integrated into the patriarch's care.
-
Numbers 32:40
Moses gave Gilead to Machir the son of Manasseh; and he lived therein.
Here Moses grants Gilead to Machir, recognizing his tribe's military service and establishing their permanent inheritance in the land.
-
II Samuel 9:5
Then King David sent and brought him out of the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, from Lo Debar.
David sends for Mephibosheth from Machir’s house, demonstrating how this individual provided a safe haven for the king’s relative, fulfilling David's covenant loyalty.