1 Ch. 5: Trans-Jordan Genealogy

1 Chronicles 5:18 "The Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh had 44,760 men ready for military service—able-bodied men who could handle shield and sword, who could use a bow, and who were trained for battle."

After Judah and Simeon comes Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. These were part of Israel who were taken into captivity by Pul, the king of Assyria. Anytime these clans are mentioned, or there is detail mentioned, I find myself wanting to consider the blessings Jacob bestowed on them in Genesis 49. I'm always curious as to how they have come true, and what is meant by the words Jacob said.

Viewed as a sign of strength, Reuben, of course is infamous for bedding one of Jacob's wives, this offense led to the promise that he would no longer excel. Because of Israel's general disobedience to God, Reuben's tribe was exiled anyway.

Gad, was he attacked by a band of raiders? In 2 Kings, it appears most tribes were, but Gad was specifically singled out as attacking back. They must have had a busy, well-trained army. Verses 19-22 describe a great victory they had over the Hagrites. Must have been a long time ago. I don't know. Towards the end of the time before the exile, it doesn't sound as though Israel was given much military victory.

Manasseh didn't have a great recount here. They had great numbers and were famous, but gave in to prostituting themselves to gods of nations that God went ahead and overthrew. God went ahead and destroyed these nations, but their gods were still worshipped. Kind of sadly ironic.