from יָרִיב; contentious; Jeribai, an Israelite; Jeribai.
Transliteration:Yᵉrîybay
Pronunciation:yer-eeb-ah'ee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun Yᵉrîybay (`{{H3403}}`) is derived from the root יָרִיב (yarib, `{{H7378}}`), which signifies "to contend, strive, dispute, or plead a cause." As a personal name, Yᵉrîybay carries the inherent meaning of its root, often interpreted as "my contender," "he contends for me," or "contentious." In the context of biblical names, such etymologies often reflect either the circumstances surrounding a person's birth, their perceived character, or a hope for their future. For Yᵉrîybay, the most direct and common understanding leans towards "contentious" or "one who strives," perhaps denoting a vigorous or zealous disposition. As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed to the individual it identifies, but its etymological roots connect it to broader concepts of conflict, advocacy, and perseverance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Yᵉrîybay (`{{H3403}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 11:46]]. In this passage, he is listed among the valiant warriors who served King David. The verse reads: "Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite." This list, found in [[1 Chronicles 11:10-47]], enumerates David's "mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, gibborim), a select group of elite soldiers known for their exceptional courage and loyalty. The Chronicler's inclusion of Yᵉrîybay in this esteemed company, albeit without further narrative detail, signifies his status as a trusted and capable individual in David's service. While the name itself might suggest a disputatious nature, in the context of a warrior, it could equally imply one who is a fierce "striver" or "contender" on the battlefield, valiantly fighting for the king and his kingdom. His presence in this list underscores his participation in the establishment and defense of David's reign.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical connection for Yᵉrîybay (`{{H3403}}`) is its root, יָרִיב (yarib, `{{H7378}}`). This root is foundational to a family of words expressing concepts of contention, strife, and legal dispute. Notable related terms include:
* רִיב (riv, `{{H7379}}`): This noun frequently appears meaning "strife," "contention," "dispute," or "a legal case." Examples include [[Proverbs 17:14]], where it describes the beginning of strife, or [[Isaiah 41:21]], referring to a legal controversy.
* Other personal names: The root also forms part of other biblical names, such as Jerubbaal (יְרֻבַּעַל), a name given to Gideon in [[Judges 6:32]], meaning "let Baal contend against him," reflecting a divine or human challenge.
The concepts evoked by this word family extend beyond mere argument to encompass zealous advocacy, perseverance in the face of opposition, and the pursuit of justice, whether in a legal, military, or spiritual context. For Yᵉrîybay, his name could have signified a tenacious spirit, someone who "contended" effectively for David's cause.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, Yᵉrîybay (`{{H3403}}`) primarily holds theological significance through his identity as an individual within God's unfolding redemptive history. His inclusion in the Chronicler's esteemed list of David's mighty men highlights the divine valuing of loyalty, valor, and dedicated service to the divinely appointed king. This list serves not merely as a historical record but as a testament to the human agents through whom God established His kingdom on earth. Yᵉrîybay's presence, though brief, reminds the reader that God utilizes a diverse array of individuals, each with unique attributes—even those whose names suggest a "contentious" or "striving" nature—to fulfill His sovereign purposes. In the context of David's kingdom, a "striver" would be a valuable asset, one who vigorously pursues victory and justice. The Chronicler's meticulous record of these individuals underscores the importance of every person's contribution, however seemingly minor, to the larger divine narrative.
### Summary
Yᵉrîybay (`{{H3403}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "my contender" or "contentious," derived from the root יָרִיב (yarib, `{{H7378}}`), "to contend or strive." He is mentioned only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 11:46]], where he is listed among David's elite "mighty men." While the Bible provides no further details about his life or deeds, his inclusion in this distinguished roster signifies his valor, loyalty, and significant role in King David's service. The etymology of his name may reflect a tenacious or striving character, fitting for a warrior. Yᵉrîybay's brief appearance serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse individuals, each with their unique characteristics and contributions, whom God raises up and uses in the unfolding of His divine plan and the establishment of His kingdom.
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