from מָרָא(in the sense of vigor); lusty; Mamre, an Amorite; Mamre.
Transliteration:Mamrêʼ
Pronunciation:mam-ray'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מַמְרֵא (Mamrêʼ), Strong's `{{H4471}}`, is primarily known as a proper noun, identifying both a person and a geographical location significant in the patriarchal narratives. Its etymological root is linked to מָרָא (mara'), which, in this specific instance, carries the sense of "vigor" or "lustiness." This underlying meaning suggests a connotation of strength, vitality, or robust life. While the root מָרָא can also be associated with concepts like "bitterness" or "rebellion" in other contexts (e.g., `{{H4784}}`, `{{H4785}}`), the definition provided for `{{H4471}}` explicitly points towards the positive aspect of "vigor." Thus, Mamre, as a name, might have conveyed an inherent quality of strength or prominence, fitting for a chieftain or a notable landmark.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Mamre appears extensively in the Book of Genesis, marking a crucial site in Abraham's journey and interaction with God. It is most famously associated with the "oaks of Mamre" or "terebinths of Mamre" (e.g., [[Genesis 13:18]], [[Genesis 14:13]], [[Genesis 18:1]], [[Genesis 23:17]], [[Genesis 23:19]], [[Genesis 25:9]], [[Genesis 35:27]], [[Genesis 49:30]], [[Genesis 50:13]]).
1. **As a Place:** Mamre is depicted as a specific locality near Hebron (also called Kiriath-arba, [[Genesis 23:19]], [[Genesis 35:27]]). It served as a significant dwelling place for Abraham, where he pitched his tent and built an altar to the Lord ([[Genesis 13:18]]). This location was witness to pivotal events:
* The divine appearance to Abraham, where the Lord reaffirmed the covenant promises of land and descendants ([[Genesis 18:1-15]]). This encounter, often understood as a theophany or angelophany, highlights Mamre as a sacred space of divine revelation and hospitality.
* The negotiation for Sarah's burial plot, the cave of Machpelah, which was "in the field of Ephron the Hittite, before Mamre (that is, Hebron)" ([[Genesis 23:17-19]]). This establishes Mamre as intrinsically linked to the patriarchal burial ground, a tangible expression of the promise of land.
* The burial place of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah ([[Genesis 25:9]], [[Genesis 49:30]], [[Genesis 50:13]]), further solidifying its importance as a familial and covenantal site.
2. **As a Person:** Mamre is also identified as an Amorite chieftain, an ally of Abraham, alongside Eshcol and Aner ([[Genesis 14:13]], [[Genesis 14:24]]). These individuals joined Abraham in his pursuit of the kings who had captured Lot, demonstrating a strategic alliance between Abraham and local Amorite leaders. This personal identification suggests the name was borne by a prominent figure, consistent with the root's meaning of "vigor" or "strength."
### Related Words & Concepts
While the specific etymological branch of מָרָא (mara') leading to `{{H4471}}` emphasizes "vigor," other forms of the root can denote "bitterness" or "rebellion" (e.g., `{{H4784}}`, `{{H4785}}`, as seen in [[Exodus 15:23]] for Marah, the bitter waters, or [[Deuteronomy 21:18]] for a rebellious son). It is crucial to distinguish these semantic ranges; for `{{H4471}}`, the primary focus is on strength and vitality.
Related concepts include:
* **Covenant:** Mamre is a primary locus for the reaffirmation of God's covenant with Abraham, particularly concerning land and progeny.
* **Theophany/Divine Encounter:** The appearance of the Lord to Abraham at Mamre is a foundational moment of divine-human interaction.
* **Hospitality:** Abraham's readiness to host the three visitors at Mamre exemplifies ancient Near Eastern hospitality and foreshadows divine blessing.
* **Land Promise:** The purchase of the cave of Machpelah at Mamre serves as the first tangible possession of the promised land by Abraham, securing a burial site for his lineage.
* **Amorites:** The alliance with Mamre the Amorite illustrates the complex socio-political landscape of Canaan and Abraham's integration within it.
### Theological Significance
Mamre holds profound theological significance within the biblical narrative, particularly for its role in the unfolding of God's covenant with Abraham.
1. **Site of Divine Revelation:** The most striking theological aspect of Mamre is its designation as a place where the Lord appeared to Abraham ([[Genesis 18:1]]). This encounter is not merely a historical event but a sacred moment of direct communication, where God reveals His plans (regarding Sodom and Gomorrah) and reiterates the promise of a son to Abraham and Sarah. It underscores God's personal engagement with His chosen people and His faithfulness to His word.
2. **Anchor of the Land Promise:** The permanent settlement of Abraham near Mamre and, crucially, the purchase of the cave of Machpelah within its vicinity, concretizes the promise of land. This act of acquiring property, even for burial, signifies a claim to the land promised by God, serving as a down payment on the future inheritance of Israel. It transforms a transient encampment into a foundational homeland.
3. **Symbol of Faith and Hospitality:** Abraham's actions at Mamre — building an altar, dwelling there, and extending lavish hospitality to strangers who turn out to be divine messengers — exemplify a life of faith and devotion. Mamre becomes a backdrop for Abraham's obedient response to God's presence and promises.
4. **Continuity of Patriarchal Lineage:** As the burial place for the patriarchs and matriarchs, Mamre (specifically the cave of Machpelah) serves as a powerful symbol of the continuity of God's covenant with Abraham's descendants. It links generations and reinforces the enduring nature of the divine promises through the family line.
### Summary
The term מַמְרֵא (Mamrêʼ), Strong's `{{H4471}}`, derived from a root signifying "vigor" or "strength," designates both a prominent Amorite chieftain and, more famously, a crucial geographical location in the patriarchal narratives. As a place, Mamre, particularly the "oaks of Mamre" near Hebron, served as a primary residence for Abraham and a sacred site of profound divine encounter. It was here that God appeared to Abraham to reaffirm the covenant promises of land and numerous descendants. The purchase of the cave of Machpelah at Mamre further cemented its significance as the patriarchal burial ground, serving as the first tangible fulfillment of the land promise. Theologically, Mamre stands as a testament to God's faithfulness, a locus of divine revelation, and a symbol of Abraham's exemplary faith and hospitality, anchoring the foundational narratives of Israel's heritage.
TRV