The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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1 Chronicles 7:14
What does 1 Chronicles 7:14 mean?
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1 Chronicles 7:14
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What's easy to miss here is that the verse doesn't just list names; it subtly highlights the complex family dynamics of the time. Notice how it specifies the mother of Asriel was an Aramean concubine, a detail that might have been omitted if purity or social standing were the only concerns, showing God's inclusiveness in His unfolding plan. This detail also hints at the broader interactions between Israel and surrounding nations, even within genealogies.
The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing on the tribe of Manasseh, Joseph's son. It’s important to remember this isn't just a dry list of names; it's God preserving the lineage through which His promises would unfold. This particular passage highlights the offspring of Manasseh, acknowledging both legitimate and less traditionally recognized lines within the family.
Ever feel like your family story has quiet, overlooked chapters? This verse shines a light on one such figure, a woman whose status might have made her invisible, but whose lineage proved significant.
The Bible doesn't always present perfect, straightforward family trees. In this verse, we meet a woman described as Manasseh's 'Aramean concubine.' In ancient Israel, concubines held a lower social status than wives, and their children often faced uncertainty. Yet, this particular woman, unnamed in the text, becomes the mother of Machir, who is then identified as the father of Gilead. This highlights how God's purposes can unfold through unexpected people and circumstances, often elevating those who might be marginalized.
Why does the Bible meticulously trace family lines, even the complicated ones? It’s not just history; it’s theology in action, pointing to God's faithfulness.
The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are crucial for understanding God's covenant promises. They track the lineage of Israel, particularly through the line of David, from which the Messiah would come. Even brief mentions like this one serve to anchor the broader narrative. Machir, son of Manasseh, becomes a significant figure, and his descendants will play a role in the history of Israel. The text is carefully preserving the threads of God's redemptive plan, showing His commitment to His people across generations and through all their complexities.
Understand the original words
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pilegesh · Hebrew Noun
Refers to a woman who was a secondary wife or a woman of lower social status in an ancient Near Eastern household. While distinct from a primary wife, concubines were recognized in the lineage of families, particularly in the patriarchal narratives of Israel.
This verse traces lineage back to the early days of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land, reminding readers of God's faithfulness through generations and the complex origins of families, even through intermingling with the Aramean people.
~1800 BC
Abrahamic Covenant Established
God makes an unconditional covenant with Abraham, promising descendants, land, and blessing to all nations through him.
~1446 BC
The Exodus from Egypt
Under Moses' leadership, the Israelites leave slavery in Egypt, marking a pivotal moment in their formation as a people.
~1406 BC
Conquest of Canaan Begins
Led by Joshua, the Israelites enter and begin conquering the Promised Land after forty years in the wilderness.
~1350 BC
Settlement of the Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel establish their territories within the land of Canaan, including Manasseh in Gilead and central Israel.
c. 1050 BC
United Monarchy Established
Saul is anointed king, uniting the tribes and ushering in a new era of centralized leadership.
c. 1000 BC
David Reigns as King
David conquers Jerusalem and expands the kingdom, solidifying Israel's status as a regional power.
c. 970 BC
Solomon's Reign and Temple
Solomon builds the First Temple in Jerusalem, a high point of Israel's glory before the kingdom later divides.
This passage lists Manasseh's sons, including Machir and Asriel, directly linking to the lineage mentioned in 1 Chronicles.
Joshua 17:1-3This section details the inheritance of Manasseh's descendants, mentioning Machir as the father of Gilead, which reinforces the family relationships from the Chronicles account.
Numbers 26:29-34The census of the tribes lists the families of Manasseh, again naming Machir and his sons, providing further genealogical context for this specific family line.
What's easy to miss here is that the verse doesn't just list names; it subtly highlights the complex family dynamics of the time. Notice how it specifies the mother of Asriel was an Aramean concubine, a detail that might have been omitted if purity or social standing were the only concerns, showing God's inclusiveness in His unfolding plan. This detail also hints at the broader interactions between Israel and surrounding nations, even within genealogies.
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing on the tribe of Manasseh, Joseph's son. It’s important to remember this isn't just a dry list of names; it's God preserving the lineage through which His promises would unfold. This particular passage highlights the offspring of Manasseh, acknowledging both legitimate and less traditionally recognized lines within the family.
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing on the tribe of Manasseh, Joseph's son. It’s important to remember this isn't just a dry list of names; it's God preserving the lineage through which His promises would unfold. This particular passage highlights the offspring of Manasseh, acknowledging both legitimate and less traditionally recognized lines within the family.
"The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead." — What's easy to miss here is that the verse doesn't just list names; it subtly highlights the complex family dynamics of the time. Notice how it specifies the mother of Asriel was an Aramean concubine…
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Last reviewed October 2026