The Merar'ites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel, as established by God through Moses. The Levites were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, and the Merar'ites played a crucial role in this sacred duty. The name "Merar'ite" is derived from Merari, the third son of Levi, who was the progenitor of this clan (Genesis 46:11).

Biblical Role and Duties

The Merar'ites were specifically tasked with the care and transportation of the structural components of the Tabernacle. According to the Book of Numbers, their responsibilities included the frames of the Tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, bases, and all its equipment—everything related to its use (Numbers 3:36-37). This duty was essential for the mobility of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings, as the Tabernacle was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

In Numbers 4:29-33, the specific duties of the Merar'ites are further detailed. They were to carry the frames of the Tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, bases, and all the equipment related to these items. The Merar'ites were under the supervision of Ithamar, the son of Aaron the priest, ensuring that their service was conducted according to divine instructions.

Census and Organization

The Merar'ites were counted separately in the census of the Levites, as recorded in Numbers 3:33-34. At that time, the number of males one month old or more was 6,200. This census was part of the broader organization of the Levites, who were divided into three main families: the Gershonites, the Kohathites, and the Merar'ites, each with distinct roles in the service of the Tabernacle.

Settlement and Allotment

After the conquest of Canaan, the Merar'ites, like other Levites, were not given a specific territory as an inheritance. Instead, they were allotted cities within the territories of other tribes, as described in Joshua 21. This arrangement allowed them to fulfill their priestly duties throughout the land of Israel. The Merar'ites received twelve cities from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun (Joshua 21:7, 34-40).

Historical Significance

The Merar'ites continued to serve in the Temple after its construction by Solomon, maintaining their role in the care of the sacred structure. Their service exemplified the broader Levitical commitment to the worship and service of God, as they facilitated the proper functioning of the central place of worship for the Israelites.

The Merar'ites, through their faithful service, contributed to the spiritual life of Israel, ensuring that the Tabernacle and later the Temple remained a place where God's presence was honored and revered. Their legacy is a testament to the importance of obedience and dedication in the service of God, as outlined in the Scriptures.Merar'ite (2 Occurrences)

Joshua 21:34
And unto the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with the open land about it, and Kartah with the open land about it;
(See RSV)

Joshua 21:40
All these were the cities of the children of Merari according to their families, even the rest of the families of the Levites; and their lot was twelve cities.
(See RSV)

Merar'ite (2 Occurrences)
Merar'ite. Merarite, Merar'ite. Merarites . Multi-Version Concordance
Merar'ite (2 Occurrences). Joshua 21:34 And unto the families ...
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Merarites (7 Occurrences)

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Merarite (8 Occurrences)

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