### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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