Topical Encyclopedia The Mehunim, also referred to as Meunites in some translations, are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the inhabitants of the region surrounding Edom. The name "Mehunim" is believed to be derived from a root meaning "habitation" or "dwelling," suggesting a settled people.Biblical References: 1. 2 Chronicles 26:7 · The Mehunim are first mentioned in the context of King Uzziah of Judah, who reigned in the 8th century BC. The text states, "God helped him against the Philistines, against the Arabs who lived in Gur-baal, and against the Meunites." This passage highlights the Mehunim as one of the groups subdued by Uzziah during his military campaigns, indicating their presence as a distinct people in the region. 2. 1 Chronicles 4:41 · The Chronicler records an event during the reign of Hezekiah, King of Judah, where the descendants of Simeon attacked and displaced the Meunites. The verse reads, "These who were recorded by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah and attacked their tents and the Meunites who were found there, and they devoted them to destruction to this day and settled in their place, because there was pasture there for their flocks." This suggests that the Mehunim were pastoralists, living in tents and relying on livestock. 3. Ezra 2:50 and Nehemiah 7:52 · In the post-exilic period, the Mehunim are listed among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. The passages state, "the descendants of Meunim" as part of the larger group of temple servants. This inclusion indicates that some Mehunim were integrated into the religious life of the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile. Historical and Cultural Context: The Mehunim are often associated with the region south of the Dead Sea, near Edom and the Arabah. Their mention alongside other groups such as the Philistines and Arabs suggests they were part of the broader ethnic and cultural milieu of the ancient Near East. The Mehunim's interactions with the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible, reflect the complex relationships between the various peoples inhabiting the region. The Mehunim's role as adversaries in the military campaigns of Judah's kings, as well as their later integration into the Jewish community as temple servants, illustrates the dynamic nature of identity and allegiance in the ancient world. Their mention in the genealogical and historical records of Chronicles and Ezra-Nehemiah underscores the importance of these texts in preserving the memory of diverse groups that interacted with Israel throughout its history. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the Mehunim's narrative in the Bible serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His people. The victories over the Mehunim and other groups are attributed to divine assistance, as seen in 2 Chronicles 26:7, where "God helped him against the Philistines, against the Arabs who lived in Gur-baal, and against the Meunites." This underscores the biblical theme of God's providential care and support for Israel in fulfilling His covenant promises. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Mehunim among the Nethinim in the post-exilic community highlights the theme of redemption and restoration. Despite their earlier opposition, some Mehunim became part of the worshiping community in Jerusalem, reflecting the inclusive nature of God's plan for His people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Mehunim(habitations). (Ezra 2:50) Elsewhere called Mehunims and Meunim. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MEHUNIMme-hu'-nim (me`unim). Strong's Hebrew 4586. Meunim -- a people Southeast of the Dead Sea... Mehunims, Meunim. Or Msiyniy {meh-ee-nee'}; probably patrial from Ma'own; a Meunite, or inhabitant of Maon (only in plural) -- Mehunim(-s), Meunim. ... /hebrew/4586.htm - 6k Thesaurus Mehunim (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MEHUNIM. me-hu'-nim (me`unim). See MEUNIM. Multi-Version Concordance Mehunim (2 Occurrences). ... /m/mehunim.htm - 7k Nephusim (1 Occurrence) Maonites (3 Occurrences) Maon (7 Occurrences) Meunim (5 Occurrences) Mehunims (1 Occurrence) Mehu'man (1 Occurrence) Helpeth (9 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Mehunim (2 Occurrences)2 Chronicles 26:7 Ezra 2:50 Subtopics Mehunim: A Person Whose Descendants Returned from Exile Related Terms |
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