The term "Mecherathite" refers to an inhabitant of Mecherah, a location mentioned in the genealogical and territorial records of the Old Testament. The Mecherathites are specifically noted in the context of the mighty men who served King David, a group of elite warriors renowned for their bravery and skill in battle.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the Mecherathite is found in 1 Chronicles 11:36, which lists the mighty men of David: "Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite." . This passage is part of a larger section that details the exploits and origins of David's valiant warriors, who played a crucial role in establishing and defending the kingdom of Israel during David's reign.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The exact location of Mecherah is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text. However, it is presumed to be a town or region within the territory of ancient Israel. The mention of Hepher as a Mecherathite suggests that Mecherah was significant enough to be recognized as the origin of one of David's notable warriors.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

The inclusion of Hepher the Mecherathite among David's mighty men highlights the diverse backgrounds and origins of those who were drawn to David's leadership. This diversity reflects the unifying power of David's kingship, which brought together individuals from various tribes and regions to serve a common purpose under God's anointed king.

From a theological perspective, the account of David's mighty men, including the Mecherathite, underscores the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. David's successful reign and the establishment of a strong, unified kingdom are seen as a testament to God's faithfulness and the realization of His covenant with David.

Conclusion:

While the Mecherathite is a relatively obscure reference within the biblical narrative, it contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history during the time of David. The mention of Hepher the Mecherathite serves as a reminder of the varied and often hidden contributions of individuals in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for His people.MECHERATHITE

me-ke'-rath-it (mekherathi, "dweller in Mecharah"): Possibly this is a misreading of "Maachathite" (the King James Version). It is the description of Hepher, one of David's valiant men (1 Chronicles 11:36).

In the Wallel list of 2 Samuel 23, especially 23:34, the "Maachathite" is mentioned without name in the place in the list given to Hepher in 1 Chronicles 11:36. The variations do not destroy the conviction that the list is virtually the same.

4382. Mekerathi -- a descriptive name for one of David's men
... a descriptive name for one of David's men. Transliteration: Mekerathi Phonetic Spelling:
(mek-ay-raw-thee') Short Definition: Mecherathite. ... Mecherathite. ...
/hebrew/4382.htm - 6kMecherathite (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MECHERATHITE. me-ke'-rath ... same. Multi-Version
Concordance Mecherathite (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ...
/m/mecherathite.htm - 7k

Meche'rathite (1 Occurrence)
Meche'rathite. Mecherathite, Meche'rathite. Meconah . ... Meche'rathite (1 Occurrence).
1 Chronicles 11:36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite; (See RSV ...
/m/meche'rathite.htm - 6k

Mekerathite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Mekerathite (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 11:36
Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite, (See NIV). ...
/m/mekerathite.htm - 6k

Mechanics (2 Occurrences)

/m/mechanics.htm - 7k

Pelonite (3 Occurrences)
... NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles 11:36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite,
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles ...
/p/pelonite.htm - 7k

Pel'onite (3 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:27 Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite; (See RSV). 1 Chronicles
11:36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite; (See RSV). ...
/p/pel'onite.htm - 7k

Ahi'jah (22 Occurrences)
... begot Uzza, and Ahihud. (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 11:36 Hepher the Mecherathite,
Ahijah the Pelonite; (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 26:20 ...
/a/ahi'jah.htm - 12k

Ahijah (23 Occurrences)
... (WEB JPS ASV BBE DBY NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles 11:36 Hepher the Mecherathite, Ahijah
the Pelonite, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/a/ahijah.htm - 21k

Hepher (11 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Chronicles 11:36 Hepher the
Mecherathite, Ahijah the Pelonite, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/h/hepher.htm - 11k

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