The Hebrew name Mᵉrîyb Baʻal, represented by H4807, means quarreller of Baal. It is also identified as Merib-Baal and an epithet of Gideon. This name appears only 3 times across 2 unique verses, primarily within genealogical records.
The biblical use of H4807 is confined to the genealogies in 1 Chronicles. In these passages, Meribbaal is established as a key link in the lineage of Saul. He is identified as the son H1121 of Jonathan H3083 and the father of Micah H4318. This is recorded in both 1 Chronicles 8:34 and 1 Chronicles 9:40, solidifying his place in the family line.
Several related words help define the context of Mᵉrîyb Baʻal:
- H4810 Mᵉrîy Baʻal: Defined as "rebellion of (i.e. against) Baal," this is a closely related name. The base definition of H4807 explicitly says to compare it with this term, which appears alongside H4807 in the same verse 1 Chronicles 9:40.
- H1121 bên: Meaning son, this word is essential for establishing Meribbaal's identity as the direct descendant of Jonathan 1 Chronicles 8:34.
- H3083 Yᵉhôwnâthân: This is the name Jonathan, identifying the father of Meribbaal 1 Chronicles 9:40.
- H3205 yâlad: Meaning to beget or show lineage, this verb confirms that Meribbaal is the father of Micah 1 Chronicles 8:34.
- H4318 Mîykâh: The name Micah, who is identified as the son that Meribbaal begat 1 Chronicles 9:40.
While its use is limited, the name H4807 carries significant thematic weight derived from its meaning.
- Opposition to Idolatry: The name's definition, "quarreller of Baal," points directly to a theme of contention against the false god Baal. This is further supported by the alternate form H4810, which means "rebellion of Baal."
- Genealogical Marker: In scripture, the name's primary function is to serve as a genealogical marker, identifying a specific individual in the line of Jonathan 1 Chronicles 8:34.
- An Epithet of Gideon: The base definition notes that Merib-Baal was an epithet of Gideon, linking the name's theme of quarreling against Baal to another major biblical figure known for that struggle.
In summary, H4807 Mᵉrîyb Baʻal is a proper name used in the Old Testament to fix an individual within a specific lineage. Appearing exclusively in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, it identifies the son of Jonathan and father of Micah. However, the name itself, meaning "quarreller of Baal," and its close association with H4810 imbue it with a powerful theme of opposition to pagan worship.
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