Merib is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin. The name "Merib" appears in the context of the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name itself is derived from the Hebrew root "rib," which means "to contend" or "to strive." This etymology reflects the broader biblical theme of contention and struggle, often seen in the narratives of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Chronicles 8:9 : "He also had sons by Hodesh his wife: Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, Malcam, Jeuz, Sakia, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of families." In this passage, Merib is not directly mentioned, but the context of genealogies in 1 Chronicles 8 provides insight into the familial lines within the tribe of Benjamin. The passage lists the descendants of Benjamin, highlighting the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite society.

2. 1 Chronicles 8:34 : "The son of Jonathan: Merib-baal, who was the father of Micah." Here, Merib-baal is mentioned, and it is important to note that "Merib" is often associated with "Merib-baal," a name that means "Baal contends." Merib-baal is another name for Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul. This connection underscores the significance of names and their meanings in the biblical narrative, as well as the complex relationships within the royal family of Israel.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Merib and related names in the genealogies of Benjamin serves as a reminder of the intricate web of relationships and the importance of family heritage in the biblical narrative. The tribe of Benjamin holds a unique place in Israel's history, being the tribe of King Saul, the first king of Israel, and later, the Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in the New Testament.

The name "Merib" and its variations, such as "Merib-baal," reflect the ongoing theme of contention and struggle, both within the individual lives of biblical characters and the broader history of Israel. This theme is evident in the accounts of the tribe of Benjamin, which often faced internal and external conflicts, yet remained a vital part of the Israelite confederation.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, names were often given with significant meanings, reflecting the circumstances of birth, prophetic insights, or parental hopes. The name "Merib" and its association with contention may indicate the challenges faced by the family or tribe at the time of the individual's birth. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve not only as historical records but also as theological reflections on God's providence and the unfolding of His covenant promises through the generations.

The tribe of Benjamin, despite its small size, played a crucial role in Israel's history. It was known for its warriors and its strategic location between the northern and southern tribes. The accounts and genealogies of Benjamin, including figures like Merib, contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's narrative, highlighting themes of struggle, redemption, and divine purpose.4807. Merib Baal -- perhaps "Baal is advocate," a son of Jonathan
Merib Baal. 4806, 4807. Merib Baal. 4808 . perhaps "Baal is advocate,"
a son of Jonathan. Transliteration: Merib Baal Phonetic ...
/hebrew/4807.htm - 6k

4810. Meri Baal -- Meri-baal
... Meri Baal. 4811 . Meri-baal. Transliteration: Meri Baal Phonetic Spelling:
(mer-ee' bah'-al) Short Definition: a. Word Origin the same as Merib, qv. Meri-baal ...
/hebrew/4810.htm - 6k

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Merib (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Merib (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 8:34 The son of Jonathan
was Merib Baal; and Merib Baal became the father of Micah. ...
/m/merib.htm - 6k

Merib-baal (2 Occurrences)
Merib-baal. Meribbaal, Merib-baal. Mer'ib-ba'al . Easton's Bible Dictionary
Contender ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MERIB-BAAL. mer ...
/m/merib-baal.htm - 8k

Mer'ib-ba'al (2 Occurrences)
Mer'ib-ba'al. Merib-baal, Mer'ib-ba'al. Meriboth . ... 1 Chronicles 8:34 And the
son of Jonathan was Merib-baal; and Merib-baal begot Micah. (See RSV). ...
/m/mer'ib-ba'al.htm - 6k

Meribbaal (2 Occurrences)
... Contender with Baal, (1 Chronicles 8:34; 9:40), elsewhere called Mephibosheth (2
Samuel 4:4), the son of Jonathan. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MERIB-BAAL. ...
/m/meribbaal.htm - 8k

Mephibosheth (13 Occurrences)
... as having been protected by David against the vengeance the Gibeonites were permitted
to execute on the house of Saul (21:7). He is also called Merib-baal (1 ...
/m/mephibosheth.htm - 17k

Micah (54 Occurrences)
... (2.) The son of Merib-baal (Mephibosheth), 1 Chronicles 8:34, 35. (3.) The first
in rank of the priests of the family of Kohathites (1 Chronicles 23:20). ...
/m/micah.htm - 38k

Baal (94 Occurrences)
... Hence both Jonathan and David had sons called Merib-baal (1 Chronicles 8:31; 1
Chronicles 9:40) and Beeliada (1 Chronicles 14:7). After the time of Ahab ...
/b/baal.htm - 53k

Meribah (11 Occurrences)

/m/meribah.htm - 14k

Jonathan (109 Occurrences)
... Samuel 1:17-27). He left one son five years old, Merib-baal, or Mephibosheth
(2 Samuel 4:4; Comp. 1 Chronicles 8:34). (3.) Son of ...
/j/jonathan.htm - 59k

Jerubbesheth (1 Occurrence)
... In 2 Samuel 11:21 Septuagint, Lucian, has "Jeroboal," which Septuagint, Codex Vaticanus,
has corrupted to "Jeroboam." Compare MERIB-BAAL; MEPHIBOSHETH; and see ...
/j/jerubbesheth.htm - 8k

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