The Hebrew word Marʼêshâh, represented by H4762, is used as the name of two Israelites and a place in Palestine, with a base meaning of summit. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses, primarily in the historical and prophetic books.
In the biblical narrative, Mareshah is identified as a city within the territory of Judah Joshua 15:44. It was one of the cities fortified by King Rehoboam 2 Chronicles 11:8. The location served as a significant battleground where King Asa went out and set the battle in array against a massive Ethiopian army 2 Chronicles 14:10. Mareshah was also the hometown of the prophet Eliezer, who prophesied against King Jehoshaphat 2 Chronicles 20:37. The name also appears in genealogies as a descendant of Caleb 1 Chronicles 2:42 and as a descendant of Shelah, the son of Judah 1 Chronicles 4:21.
Several related words help clarify the context in which Mareshah appears:
- H5892 ʻîyr (city): This term defines Mareshah's status as a populated and guarded place. It is listed among nine cities with their villages belonging to Judah Joshua 15:44.
- H4421 milchâmâh (battle): This word highlights a key event associated with the location, when Asa prepared for battle at Mareshah 2 Chronicles 14:10.
- H5012 nâbâʼ (to prophesy): This action is directly linked to a resident of Mareshah, as Eliezer prophesied against the king of Judah 2 Chronicles 20:37.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): This term connects Mareshah to the genealogical record, noting the families of the house of them that wrought fine linen descending from Laadah, the father of Mareshah 1 Chronicles 4:21.
The significance of H4762 is rooted in its role within the tribe of Judah.
- Geopolitical Importance: As a fortified city 2 Chronicles 11:8 and the site of a major military conflict 2 Chronicles 14:9, Mareshah was a strategic location for the defense and history of the kingdom of Judah.
- Prophetic Voice: The city produced the prophet Eliezer, who delivered a direct word from the Lord concerning the consequences of a king's actions. This demonstrates that even provincial towns were sources of divine guidance and accountability 2 Chronicles 20:37.
- Genealogical Identity: Mareshah's inclusion in the lines of both Caleb and Shelah grounds it firmly within the heritage of Judah, connecting the place to the tribe's foundational lineages (1 Chronicles 2:42, 1 Chronicles 4:21).
- Subject of Prophecy: The city itself becomes the subject of divine address in the prophecy of Micah, which foretells of an heir being brought to its inhabitants, linking the location to future judgment and promise Micah 1:15.
In summary, H4762 is a name that functions as both a personal and a place-based anchor in the story of Judah. It represents a physical city with a role in Israel's military history, a source of prophetic ministry, and a name embedded in the tribe's genealogical identity. Through its varied appearances, Mareshah illustrates the intersection of family, land, and divine purpose in the biblical account.
TRV