The Hebrew name Mered, represented by H4778, identifies a specific Israelite figure. The base definition is simply Mered, an Israelite. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, both within the genealogical records of the book of 1 Chronicles.
In the biblical narrative, Mered is presented as a descendant within the tribe of Judah. He is listed as one of the sons H1121 of Ezra 1 Chronicles 4:17. The record further details his family, stating that Mered took H3947 Bithiah, the daughter H1323 of Pharaoh H6547, as his wife. His other wife H802, Jehudijah, is credited with bearing the founders of several towns: Jered the father H1 of Gedor H1446, Heber the father H1 of Socho H7755, and Jekuthiel the father H1 of Zanoah H2182 1 Chronicles 4:18.
Several related words help clarify Mered's place within the genealogy:
- H1121 bên (a son): This term is fundamental to establishing lineage. Mered is identified as one of the "sons of Ezra" 1 Chronicles 4:17, and his own descendants are listed as "the sons of Bithiah" 1 Chronicles 4:18.
- H1323 bath (a daughter): This word highlights a significant marital alliance. Mered's marriage is to Bithiah, the "daughter of Pharaoh" 1 Chronicles 4:18, connecting the line of Judah to Egyptian royalty.
- H3947 lâqach (to take): This verb is used to describe the act of marriage in this context, specifying that Mered "took" Bithiah as his wife 1 Chronicles 4:18.
- H802 'ishshâh (a woman, wife): This term identifies Mered's wives, Jehudijah and Bithiah, through whom his lineage is continued 1 Chronicles 4:18.
The brief account of Mered illustrates several important themes.
- Preservation of Lineage: Mered's inclusion in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles is part of the meticulous recording of family lines. This record establishes his identity within the tribe of Judah and links him to the broader history of Israel 1 Chronicles 4:17.
- Integration into Israel: A key event is Mered's marriage to Bithiah H1332, the daughter H1323 of Pharaoh. The name Bithiah means "daughter (i.e. worshipper) of Jah," which suggests the integration of a prominent foreigner into the covenant community of Israel 1 Chronicles 4:18.
- Foundation of Communities: Mered's legacy is tied to the establishment of settlements. His sons are listed as the "father" of specific locations like Gedor H1446, Socho H7755, and Zanoah H2182, showing how individual families contributed to the growth and structure of the nation 1 Chronicles 4:18.
In summary, H4778 Mered is a figure noted in the genealogies of Judah. While his mention is brief, his story is significant for its documentation of his marriage to an Egyptian princess, Bithiah, and for tracing his descendants as the founders of several Israelite towns. His account serves as an example of how the biblical genealogies preserve not only lineage but also stories of faith, integration, and the establishment of a nation.
TRV