lemma מְעוּנָי third vowel, corrected to מְעוּנִי; or מְעִינִי; probably patrial from מָעוֹן; a Meunite, or inhabitant of Maon (only in plural); Mehunim(-s), Meunim.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mᵉʻûwnîy**, identified as `{{H4586}}`, refers to a **Meunite**, or an inhabitant of Maon. This term, found in the plural form as Mehunim or Meunim, appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** within the Old Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical accounts, the Mehunims appear in two distinct contexts. First, they are listed as adversaries of Israel alongside the Philistines and Arabians, against whom **God** `{{H430}}` **helped** `{{H5826}}` Israel [[2 Chronicles 26:7]]. Later, the "children of Meunim" are included in the genealogical records of families who returned from the Babylonian exile, listed alongside the children of Asnah and Nephusim/Nephishesim ([[Ezra 2:50]]; [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the appearances of the Meunim:
* `{{H5826}}` **ʻâzar** (to surround, i.e. protect or aid): This word describes God's direct intervention on behalf of his people against the Mehunims and other enemies [[2 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This term is used to establish the lineage of the "children of Meunim" who were part of the community returning to Jerusalem ([[Ezra 2:50]]; [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (a Pelishtite or inhabitant of Pelesheth): The Philistines are listed as fellow adversaries of Israel, appearing in the same context as the Mehunims [[2 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H6163}}` **ʻĂrâbîy** (an Arabian or inhabitant of Arab): The Arabians are another group mentioned alongside the Mehunims as enemies whom God helped Israel overcome [[2 Chronicles 26:7]].
### Theological Significance
The mentions of `{{H4586}}` carry theological weight regarding God's relationship with both Israel and other peoples.
* **Divine Aid Against Adversaries:** The appearance of the Mehunims as an enemy group highlights God's role as a divine helper. God's power is shown to be sufficient to grant victory over various opposing forces, demonstrating His protection of His people [[2 Chronicles 26:7]].
* **Restoration and Inclusion:** The inclusion of the "children of Meunim" in the lists of returning exiles demonstrates God's faithfulness in preserving and restoring His people. It shows that even smaller or less prominent families were part of the covenant community being brought back to the land ([[Ezra 2:50]]; [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4586}}` represents a specific people group, the Meunites. Though mentioned only briefly, their appearances in Scripture are significant. They are shown first as antagonists over whom God grants victory, and later as a family line integrated into the restored community of Israel. This dual portrayal illustrates God's sovereignty in both conflict and in the preservation of his people.
TRV