The Hebrew word Yᵉrîyâh, represented by H3404, is a proper name meaning "Jah will throw." It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. This name identifies a specific Israelite who held a position of leadership among the Levites during the reign of King David.
Jeriah is mentioned exclusively in genealogical lists within 1 Chronicles. He is identified as the first H7218 of the sons H1121 of Hebron H2275 (1 Chronicles 23:19; 1 Chronicles 24:23). A more detailed account designates him as Jerijah H3404 the chief H7218 among the Hebronites H2276, noted according to the generations H8435 of his fathers H1. This record specifies that in the fortieth H705 year H8141 of David's H1732 reign H4438, a search was conducted, and mighty men H1368 of valour H2428 were found H4672 among his family at Jazer H3270 of Gilead H1568 1 Chronicles 26:31.
Several related words help clarify Jeriah's identity and role:
- H2275 Chebrôwn (Hebron): This word establishes Jeriah's lineage as one of the "sons of Hebron," connecting him to a key Levitical family 1 Chronicles 23:19. The name itself means "seat of association."
- H2276 Chebrôwnîy (Hebronites): This term defines Jeriah's clan identity. He was not just a descendant but the chief H7218 of the Hebronites H2276, a position of significant authority within that family group 1 Chronicles 26:31.
- H7218 rôʼsh (chief, first): This word is used to denote Jeriah's status. He is listed as the first H7218 son in two genealogies and the chief H7218 of the Hebronites, underscoring his position of rank and leadership (1 Chronicles 23:19; 1 Chronicles 26:31).
Though brief, the mention of H3404 carries theological weight within its context of Levitical organization.
- Divine Order and Administration: Jeriah's placement as a chief H7218 highlights the detailed organization of the Levitical families for service during David's reign. These records show a divinely structured administration for the kingdom.
- Valorous Service: Jeriah's family was noted for its mighty men H1368 of valour H2428 1 Chronicles 26:31. This links his leadership not only to priestly lineage but also to strength and capability in serving God and the king.
- Generational Legacy: The reference to his lineage "according to the generations H8435 of his fathers H1" grounds his role in a historical line of succession and faithfulness, demonstrating the importance of family history in biblical records 1 Chronicles 26:31.
In summary, H3404 Yᵉrîyâh is the name of a specific Levitical leader whose identity is preserved in Scripture. While the references are contained within genealogies, they define him as a man of rank and the head of a capable, valorous family. His inclusion in the biblical text serves as an example of the meticulous order and generational continuity that characterized the administration of God's people during the reign of David.
TRV