### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Midyânîy**, represented by `{{H4084}}`, is a patrial term for a **Midianite**, a descendant or native of Midjan. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible, referring to this specific people group and their interactions with Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4084}}` is used to identify individuals and groups in several key events. Early on, **Midianites** are depicted as merchantmen who passed by when Joseph was in the pit and were involved in selling him to the Ishmeelites [[Genesis 37:28]]. The term also establishes a familial connection to a key figure, as Moses's father-in-law, Raguel, is identified as a **Midianite** [[Numbers 10:29]]. However, the relationship sours significantly, as shown when a **Midianitish woman** is brought into the Israelite camp, leading to a divine command to "vex the **Midianites**, and smite them" [[Numbers 25:17]] and to avenge Israel upon them [[Numbers 31:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the Midianites and their activities:
* `{{H4080}}` **Midyân** (Midian): The base name from which **Midyânîy** is derived. It refers to Midjan, a son of Abraham, as well as his country and descendants. Moses dwelt in the land of **Midian** after fleeing from Pharaoh [[Exodus 2:15]].
* `{{H3459}}` **Yishmâʻêʼlîy** (Ishmaelite): These descendants of Jishmael appear alongside the Midianites as the group to whom Joseph was ultimately sold [[Genesis 37:28]].
* `{{H7467}}` **Rᵉʻûwʼêl** (Raguel): Identified as Moses' father-in-law and a **Midianite** [[Numbers 10:29]]. His name means "friend of God."
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (smite): This primitive root, meaning to strike or kill, is used in the command to "smite" the Midianites [[Numbers 25:17]] and describes the death of the **Midianitish** woman [[Numbers 25:15]].
* `{{H5358}}` **nâqam** (avenge): The LORD commands Moses to **avenge** the children of Israel of the Midianites, showing the severity of the conflict between the two peoples [[Numbers 31:2]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{H4084}}` is primarily historical, marking a people whose relationship with Israel shifts dramatically.
* **Neutral Commerce:** Initially, the **Midianites** are portrayed as traders or merchantmen, playing a pivotal role in the events that led Joseph to Egypt [[Genesis 37:28]].
* **Familial Alliance:** A significant positive connection is established through Moses' marriage to the daughter of Raguel the **Midianite**, who is invited to journey with Israel [[Numbers 10:29]].
* **Antagonism and Judgment:** The relationship culminates in open hostility. The incident involving the **Midianitish** woman Cozbi is seen as a great sin, resulting in God commanding Israel to "vex" and "smite" the **Midianites** as an act of vengeance ([[Numbers 25:17]], [[Numbers 31:2]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4084}}` identifies a people group whose story is intertwined with Israel's history at crucial points. The term **Midianite** encompasses a complex relationship that evolves from transactional commerce and familial ties to outright animosity and divine judgment. Their narrative illustrates how a neighboring people could be both an ally and, later, an enemy subject to God's commanded retribution.
TRV