Gad (1)
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Gad (1) in the Bible?
Gad was the seventh son of Jacob, born to Zilpah, and his name, derived from the Hebrew word for 'fortune,' reflected the joy of his birth. The Tribe of Gad, descended from him, was historically characterized by its martial prowess and loyalty to the United Monarchy of Israel.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Gad provides insight into the complex family dynamics within the patriarchal narratives and highlights the specific military contributions of his tribe during the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of the Israelite monarchy.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Gad (1) reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Gad (1) in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Gad (1) clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Gad (1)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gad-1/