Merari
Merari in the Bible — son of Levi (GEN 46:11). Merari belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 14 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “bitter; to provoke”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 14 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 13 connections
Biography
Merari was a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a son of Levi according to Genesis 46:11. He is noted among the sons of Israel who went to Egypt, marking his place in the early history of the Israelite people. The Merarites, a subgroup descending from him, are mentioned in Numbers 26:57, highlighting his lasting tribal significance.
Names & Titles
The name Merari is a proper name meaning 'bitter,' as given in Genesis 46:11. This meaning reflects the Hebrew root of the name but is not indicated as being divinely given. There are no additional titles or names recorded for Merari.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Merari as a son of Levi (Genesis 46:11). Inferred relationships include his connection to descendants such as Mahli and Mushi (Exodus 6:19), and a lineage extending to various ancestors like Abihail, Hashabiah, Jaaziah, and others mentioned across Numbers, Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah. These relationships establish Merari as a patriarchal figure within the Levitical genealogies.
Significance
Merari's significance lies primarily in his role as a foundational ancestor within the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His inclusion in the list of those who went to Egypt situates him at a critical juncture in Israel's history, preceding the Exodus. The Merarites, descendants of Merari, held specific responsibilities among the Levites, underscoring his lasting legacy in the organization and service of the Israelite community.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- מְרָרִי
- Transliteration
- mərariy
- Meaning
- bitter
- Greek
- Μεραρι
- Reference
- GEN 46:11
- Strong's
- H4847
Family & Relationships (13)
son
Notes
from the list of "sons of Israel" who "went to Egypt" (GEN 46:8-27), the Merarites (NUM 26:57)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Merari in the Bible?
Merari was a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a son of Levi according to Genesis 46:11. He is noted among the sons of Israel who went to Egypt, marking his place in the early history of the Israelite people. The Merarites, a subgroup descending from him, are mentioned in Numbers 26:57, highlighting his lasting tribal significance.
What does the name Merari mean?
The name Merari means “bitter; to provoke” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.