Lexical Summary Yeribay: Jeribai Original Word: יְרִיבַי Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Jeribai From yariyb; contentious; Jeribai, an Israelite -- Jeribai. see HEBREW yariyb NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom rib Definition one of David's heroes NASB Translation Jeribai (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs [יְרִיבַי] proper name, masculine a hero of David (Old Aramaic יריבי CISii. 70 (biling.) "" Assyrian Iribai); — with ו, וִירִיבַי 1 Chronicles 11:40, Ιαριβει, ᵐ5L Ιαρειβ. Topical Lexicon Biblical Context Jeribai is named once in Scripture, within the roster of David’s valiant warriors: “Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite” (1 Chronicles 11:46). This list of “mighty men” (Hebrew gibborim) highlights select soldiers whose courage, loyalty, and skill were instrumental in securing David’s kingdom. Although Jeribai receives no narrative of exploits, his inclusion places him among an elite cadre whose deeds were considered foundational to Israel’s united monarchy. Historical Setting The Chronicler situates Jeribai in the early period of David’s rise, an era marked by military conflicts with Philistines, consolidating tribes under one throne, and establishing Jerusalem as the political and worship center. The presence of diverse figures—including non-Israelites like Ithmah the Moabite—underscores how David’s leadership attracted faithful allies beyond strict tribal lines. Jeribai’s service reflects the broad coalition that recognized the Lord’s anointing upon David and worked toward the covenantal promises attached to his kingship (2 Samuel 7:8-16). Family Connections Jeribai and his brother Joshaviah are identified as “sons of Elnaam.” While Elnaam’s background is not expanded, the Chronicler’s interest in family ties suggests that Jeribai came from a household notable for bravery and devotion. This family linkage teaches that godly valor can mark an entire lineage, reminding readers that commitment to the Lord’s purposes often runs through generations. Theological Significance 1. Covenant Loyalty: Jeribai’s appearance in the Chronicles underscores loyalty to God’s chosen king. By standing with David, he aligned himself with the unfolding messianic line that would culminate in the greater Son of David, Jesus Christ (Luke 1:31-33). Lessons for Faith and Ministry • Serve Where God Places You: Jeribai proves that significance is measured by faithfulness, not publicity. Whether on a battlefield or in everyday vocation, steadfast obedience advances the divine plan. Key Reference 1 Chronicles 11:46 — Sole biblical occurrence, locating Jeribai among David’s mighty men and affirming his enduring legacy of valor and loyalty. Forms and Transliterations וִירִיבַ֥י ויריבי viriVai wî·rî·ḇay wîrîḇayLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 1 Chronicles 11:46 HEB: אֱלִיאֵל֙ הַֽמַּחֲוִ֔ים וִירִיבַ֥י וְיוֹשַׁוְיָ֖ה בְּנֵ֣י NAS: the Mahavite and Jeribai and Joshaviah, KJV: the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, INT: Eliel the Mahavite and Jeribai and Joshaviah the sons 1 Occurrence |