מָכִירִי (ma.khi.ri)
ma.khi.ri
Machirite
N:N--PGQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--PG
Word Overview
The term machirî refers to the Machirites, a clan descended from Machir, the eldest son of Manasseh. This gentilic adjective appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, serving as a collective noun for this specific group within the larger tribe of Manasseh.
Its single occurrence is found in Numbers 26:29, where it identifies these descendants during the census taken in the plains of Moab before the Israelites entered Canaan. The name itself links back to Machir, who is described in Genesis as a man of significant standing, fathering Gilead and other notable figures within the tribal lineage.
While some lexical sources suggest an etymological connection to a word meaning "salesman," the biblical text primarily uses this term to establish tribal identity and genealogical continuity. It marks the Machirites as a distinct branch of Manasseh, preserving their place in the census records that organized the tribes for inheritance and military service.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Machirite appears just once in Scripture, tucked into a census list in Numbers 26:29. It identifies a specific clan within the tribe of Manasseh, tracing their lineage back to Machir, the eldest son of Joseph. This brief mention reminds us that God keeps detailed records of His people. Even in lists of names and families, every individual has a place and a purpose in His plan.
For your faith life, this word highlights the value of heritage and continuity. The Machirites were not just numbers; they were part of a larger story of promise and inheritance. When you feel small or forgotten, remember that God knows your name just as He knew theirs. Your identity is secure in Him, rooted in His faithful covenant with His people.
This single reference encourages us to trust in God's orderly care. He organizes His church and His family with precision. You are known, you are counted, and you belong to a community that stretches back through generations of faith. Rest in the assurance that your life matters to Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ Makirite[s]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/מָּכִירִ֔י1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 26:29
The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites.
This verse uses the term to formally identify the Machirite clan within the tribal census, establishing their distinct lineage from Manasseh before entering the Promised Land.