Introduction:
Me-u'nim is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with a group of people and a family lineage. The term appears in the context of genealogies and lists of temple servants, reflecting its significance in the historical and religious landscape of ancient Israel.

Biblical References:
The Me-u'nim are mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile. In Ezra 2:50, the Me-u'nim are listed among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel: "the descendants of Meunim, the descendants of Nephusim." Similarly, in Nehemiah 7:52, the Me-u'nim are again listed among the temple servants: "the descendants of Meunim, the descendants of Nephusim."

Historical Context:
The Nethinim, to which the Me-u'nim belonged, were a group of temple servants assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. Their origins are somewhat obscure, but they are believed to have been non-Israelites who were integrated into the religious life of Israel, possibly as captives or converts. The inclusion of the Me-u'nim in the lists of returnees highlights their role in the restoration of the temple and the re-establishment of worship in Jerusalem after the exile.

Etymology and Meaning:
The name Me-u'nim is thought to be derived from a root meaning "to dwell" or "to be afflicted," though the exact meaning is uncertain. The name may reflect a geographical origin or a characteristic of the group.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
The Me-u'nim, as part of the Nethinim, played a crucial role in the functioning of the Second Temple. Their service was essential for the daily operations and rituals conducted by the Levites and priests. The dedication of the Me-u'nim and other temple servants underscores the communal effort required to maintain the religious practices central to Jewish identity and faith.

Theological Implications:
The inclusion of the Me-u'nim in the post-exilic community illustrates the inclusive nature of God's covenant people. Despite their likely foreign origins, the Me-u'nim were integrated into the worship and service of Yahweh, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's grace extending beyond ethnic and national boundaries. This serves as a reminder of the diverse composition of the people of God and the importance of service in the life of faith.

Conclusion:
While the Me-u'nim are not prominent figures in the biblical narrative, their presence in the lists of temple servants highlights their contribution to the religious life of Israel. Their role as part of the Nethinim underscores the collaborative effort required to sustain the worship and service of God, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical text.Me-u'nim (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 4:41
These written by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and struck their tents, and the Meunim who were found there, and destroyed them utterly to this day, and lived in their place; because there was pasture there for their flocks.
(See RSV)

Ezra 2:50
the children of Asnah, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephisim,
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:52
The children of Besai, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephushesim,
(See RSV)

Me-u'nim (3 Occurrences)
Me-u'nim. Meunim, Me-u'nim. Meunites . Multi-Version Concordance
Me-u'nim (3 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 4:41 These written by name ...
/m/me-u'nim.htm - 7k

Meunim (5 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MEUNIM. me-u'-nim (the King James Version Mehunim).
See MAON. Multi-Version Concordance Meunim (5 Occurrences). ...
/m/meunim.htm - 8k

Meunites (3 Occurrences)

/m/meunites.htm - 7k

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