Overview
Manasseh was a major tribal division of Israel, split into two groups: those settling east of the Jordan (in Gilead and Bashan) and those west of the Jordan (in Canaan proper). The tribe produced numerous mighty warriors and leaders throughout Israel's history, and their inheritance was one of the largest among the twelve tribes.
Key Scriptures
"Some Manassites defected to David when he came with the Philistines to fight against Saul" (1 Chronicles 12:19, NIV). "From Manasseh: Adnah with 120,000 who were armed with shield and spear" (1 Chronicles 12:20, ESV). Regarding the daughters of Zelophehad: "Why should the name of our father be done away from his family because he had no son? Give us a possession among our father's relatives" (Numbers 27:3-4, NASB).
Application
The example of Manasseh's faithful warriors reminds us to serve God's purposes with dedication and courage, recognizing that He values both strength and obedience in His people.