The Hebrew name Mamrêʼ, represented by H4471, primarily identifies a specific Amorite individual and a significant geographical location in the patriarchal narratives. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses. The name is inextricably linked to the life of Abraham, marking a place of dwelling, worship, and alliance.
In the biblical narrative, Mamrêʼ H4471 is introduced as the place where Abram dwelt after separating from Lot, described as plains in Hebron where he built an altar to the LORD Genesis 13:18. This location becomes the setting for a pivotal divine encounter, as the LORD appeared to Abraham in the plains of Mamre Genesis 18:1. The name also refers to an Amorite man who, along with his brothers Aner and Eshcol, was confederate with Abram Genesis 14:13. The place is repeatedly mentioned as the geographical marker for the cave of Machpelah, the burial site purchased by Abraham (Genesis 23:17, Genesis 25:9, Genesis 49:30).
Several related words help define the context of Mamre:
- H567 ʼĔmôrîy (Amorite): This identifies the tribal descent of Mamre the man, one of the Canaanitish tribes described as a mountaineer Genesis 14:13.
- H436 ʼêlôwn (plain): This term, meaning an oak or other strong tree, is used to describe the geographical area of Mamre where Abram dwelt (Genesis 13:18, Genesis 18:1).
- H2275 Chebrôwn (Hebron): Defined as a "seat of association," this location is consistently identified with Mamre, specifying where Abram built an altar and where the patriarchs sojourned (Genesis 13:18, Genesis 35:27).
- H4375 Makpêlâh (Machpelah): Meaning "a fold," this is the name of the cave and field purchased by Abraham for a possession of a buryingplace, located "before Mamre" (Genesis 23:17, Genesis 49:30).
The significance of H4471 is woven into the fabric of God's covenant with the patriarchs.
- Site of Divine Encounter: Mamre is distinguished as a place where the LORD appeared to Abraham, underscoring its importance in the unfolding of God's covenant plan Genesis 18:1.
- Establishment in the Promised Land: Abram's decision to dwell and build an altar at Mamre Genesis 13:18, and later to secure the nearby field of Machpelah as a possession for a buryingplace Genesis 50:13, marks a foundational step in establishing a permanent and legal hold in the land of Canaan.
- Covenant and Alliance: The narrative of Mamre the Amorite, who was "confederate with Abram" Genesis 14:13, highlights Abram's role as a leader capable of forming alliances within the land, even with the local Canaanitish peoples.
- Patriarchal Heritage and Burial: The location serves as the backdrop for the final resting place of the patriarchs and Sarah. The repeated phrase "before Mamre" firmly ties the legacy and burial of Abraham's family to this specific place, making it a site of immense historical and familial significance (Genesis 23:19, Genesis 25:9).
In summary, H4471 is far more than a simple place name. It functions as a crucial anchor in the patriarchal narratives. It is simultaneously the name of a loyal Amorite ally to Abram and, more significantly, a key geographical location near Hebron. The plains of Mamre are the setting for worship, divine revelation, and the establishment of the first permanent possession of Abraham in the land of promise—the burial cave of Machpelah. It represents a place of dwelling, alliance, and enduring legacy for Israel's founding fathers.
TRV