Definition: And to the sons of Gershom throughout their families out of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, thirteen cities.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 6:62. It’s a really fascinating and dramatic part of the story of David’s reign! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: David was giving land to his sons – Gershom, Asher, Naphtali, and Manasseh – as a gift to their families. And he did this specifically for three cities: Issachar: Located near the Jordan River, known for its strong defenses. Asher: A city in the region of the Dead Sea. Naphtali: A significant city in the north. Manasseh in Bashan: This is a large area in southwestern Israel (near modern-day Lebanon and Syria), known for its fertile land. What’s the Significance? This wasn’t just a casual gesture of generosity. It was a strategic move by David to solidify his power, control, and influence over these three key areas. He was essentially saying: "I want you to have this land, and I want you to prosper in it." Think of it like this: It’s like giving a kingdom's wealth – or resources – to its children. It shows David’s ambition and desire for his family to thrive. Important Note: The verse is often interpreted as a sign of David's growing authority and the strengthening of his rule. Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important in biblical history? Discuss the context of the story surrounding this verse?