Gilead

RegionOld Testament

32.3500°N, 35.8500°E View on Map

Gilead was a mountainous region east of the Jordan River, known for its healing balm and rich pastures. It was home to the prophet Elijah and the judge Jephthah. Jacob and Laban made their covenant at a cairn of stones they named Galeed (Gilead). The region was allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh.

Historical Timeline

Laban pursues Jacob and catches him in Gilead

Moses gives Gilead to the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh

NUM 32:1-5, 33-42

Jephthah the Gileadite delivers Israel from the Ammonites

Elijah the Tishbite comes from Gilead

Assyria conquers Gilead and deports its inhabitants

Notable Characters

Elijah

ElijahNative of Gilead who confronted Ahab

Jephthah

JephthahGileadite judge who defeated the Ammonites

Jacob

JacobMade a covenant with Laban in Gilead

Key Verses

Genesis 31:21-25 Jeremiah 8:22 1 Kings 17:1 Judges 11:1

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the 'balm of Gilead'?+