Zerahiah
Zerahiah in the Bible — father of Meraioth (1CH 6:6). Zerahiah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “the Lord rising; brightness of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Zerahiah was a male member of the tribe of Levi, known specifically as an Aaronic priest through Eleazar. He is uniquely identified as the father of Meraioth, situating him within the priestly lineage important for temple service and worship in Israel. His role underscores the continuation of the Levitical priesthood during the time recorded in 1 Chronicles.
Names & Titles
The name Zerahiah means 'y-h-v-h shines brightly [red or scarlet]' or 'y-h-v-h has risen [like the sun],' reflecting a theophoric element that honors the Lord. This proper name, recorded in 1 Chronicles 6:6, emphasizes divine brightness or rising, symbolizing God's presence or action.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Zerahiah as the father of Meraioth and infers that Uzzi was his son. These relationships place him within a generational line of Levites serving in the priesthood, highlighting the familial transmission of sacred duties.
Significance
Zerahiah's significance lies in his role as a link in the Aaronic priesthood through Eleazar, demonstrating the faithful transmission of priestly responsibilities across generations. His mention in 1 Chronicles 6:6 affirms the orderly genealogical record essential for maintaining the integrity of Israel's worship and covenant relationship with God. As a Levite and father of Meraioth, Zerahiah contributes to the biblical narrative emphasizing the continuity and sanctity of the priestly office.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- זְרַחְיָה
- Transliteration
- zərachəyah
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h shines brightly [red or scarlet]; y-h-v-h has risen [like the sun]
- Greek
- Ζαραια
- Reference
- 1CH 6:6
- Strong's
- H2228
Notes
Aaronic priest through Eleazar
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zerahiah in the Bible?
Zerahiah was a male member of the tribe of Levi, known specifically as an Aaronic priest through Eleazar. He is uniquely identified as the father of Meraioth, situating him within the priestly lineage important for temple service and worship in Israel. His role underscores the continuation of the Levitical priesthood during the time recorded in 1 Chronicles.
What does the name Zerahiah mean?
The name Zerahiah means “the Lord rising; brightness of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.