### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma מִרְמָה (Mirmâh), Strong's `{{H4821}}`, is defined primarily as a proper noun, specifically the name of an Israelite. Its base definition explicitly states "the same as מִרְמָה; Mirmah, an Israelite; Mirma." This indicates that `{{H4821}}` functions solely as a personal name, distinguishing it from the homographic `{{H4820}}`, which is a common noun meaning "deceit," "fraud," or "treachery." While the spelling is identical, the grammatical function and semantic domain are entirely distinct. The semantic range of `{{H4821}}` is therefore limited to identification, referring to a specific individual within the biblical genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun מִרְמָה (Mirmâh), `{{H4821}}`, appears only once in the Hebrew Bible.
* **[[1 Chronicles 8:10]]**: "and Jeush, and Sachia, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of the fathers' houses."
In this sole occurrence, Mirmah is listed as one of the sons of Shaharaim by his wife Hodesh, within the detailed genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin. The context is purely genealogical, serving to enumerate the lineage and family heads. There is no narrative associated with Mirmah, nor any actions or characteristics attributed to him. His mention is purely for the purpose of establishing the tribal and family records, underscoring the meticulous nature of Israelite record-keeping concerning lineage and inheritance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to מִרְמָה (`{{H4821}}`) is מִרְמָה (`{{H4820}}`). Despite being spelled identically, these are distinct entries in Strong's Concordance due to their differing functions and meanings.
* `{{H4820}}` (מִרְמָה): This is a common noun derived from the root רָמָה (râmâh, `{{H7411}}`), meaning "to deceive," "to betray," or "to cast." As such, `{{H4820}}` consistently refers to "deceit," "fraud," "treachery," or "guile" in various contexts (e.g., [[Psalm 10:7]], [[Proverbs 12:17]], [[Hosea 11:12]]).
The relationship between `{{H4821}}` and `{{H4820}}` is one of homography – words that are spelled the same but have different meanings and origins. It is crucial for the interpreter to distinguish between the proper noun (Mirmah, the person) and the common noun (mirmah, deceit) based on context and grammatical function. The name "Mirmah" itself, as a proper noun, does not necessarily carry the negative connotation of "deceit" for the individual, although its form is identical to the word that does. Many biblical names have meanings, but for `{{H4821}}`, its primary significance is its role as an identifier within a genealogical record rather than a descriptor of character.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מִרְמָה (`{{H4821}}`) is indirect, stemming primarily from its presence within the divinely inspired genealogies of Israel.
1. **Divine Preservation of Lineage**: The inclusion of Mirmah, even as a seemingly minor figure, highlights God's meticulous attention to the continuity and integrity of the Israelite tribes. These genealogies were vital for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, and the eventual lineage of the Messiah.
2. **Importance of Every Individual**: Even those not prominent in narrative accounts are seen as part of God's unfolding plan and the history of His people. Mirmah's mention affirms the value of each person within the tapestry of God's redemptive history.
3. **Accuracy of Scripture**: The precise distinction between `{{H4821}}` (the proper noun) and `{{H4820}}` (the common noun for deceit), despite their identical spelling, underscores the careful preservation and transmission of the biblical text. This precision helps prevent misinterpretation and maintains the integrity of the divine record.
### Summary
מִרְמָה (Mirmâh), `{{H4821}}`, is a unique proper noun in the Hebrew Bible, designating a specific Israelite. It appears only once in [[1 Chronicles 8:10]], where it functions as a personal name within a genealogical list of the tribe of Benjamin. Crucially, it must be distinguished from `{{H4820}}`, the common noun also transliterated as mirmâh, which means "deceit" or "fraud." While sharing identical spelling, their grammatical function and semantic content are entirely separate. The theological significance of `{{H4821}}` lies not in any narrative action but in its contribution to the meticulous biblical record of lineage, affirming the divine preservation of Israel's tribal identities and the importance of every individual within God's historical plan.
TRV