Makir - Makirite

Makir was the son of Manasseh, Joseph's first-born son (Gen 50:23). By the time of the exodus, however, Makir's descendents—the Makirites—had grown into a strong and sizeable clan. Famous as great soldiers, they captured Gilead (Num 32:39) and Bashan (Jos 17:1) from the Amorites and the land was given to them by Moses as their inheritance (Num 32:39). The death of one of their members, Zelophehad, without leaving any sons led to one of the most liberative regulations issued to Israel, i.e., daughters may inherit their father's inheritance, as well as further clarification of the law of inheritance (Num 27:1-11 & 36:1-12; Jos 7:3-6).

The clan turned out to be rather more honourable than most of the others. Deborah sang their praises for their contribution in their victory over Sisera's forces (Judg 5:14). They remained loyal to King Saul, caring for his crippled grand-son (son of Jonathan) Mephibosheth until David summoned him to his court (2 Sam 9:1ff). They remained likewise faithful to David, especially providing for his needs during the crisis when David had to flee to Gilead during Absalom's uprising (2 Sam 17, esp. vv27-29).