יְרִיבַי (ye.ri.vay)
ye.ri.vay
Jeribai
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Yĕrîḇay appears only once in Scripture, recorded in 1 Chronicles 11:46 as one of King David’s elite warriors. He is identified as the son of Elnaam and brother to Joshaviah, placing him among the loyal supporters who strengthened David’s reign during a turbulent period.
Linguistically, the name derives from the root y-r-b, meaning "to contend" or "to strive." Consequently, Yĕrîḇay translates roughly to "my contester" or "one who strives." This etymology suggests a person defined by struggle or vigorous engagement, fitting for a military hero.
While the name might initially sound negative in English, in ancient Israelite culture it often reflected resilience rather than mere aggression. The brief mention highlights how ordinary men with strong names contributed to the stability of David’s kingdom, serving as concrete examples of faithful service within the biblical narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Jeribai comes from a Hebrew root meaning to strive or contend. In ancient Israel, this was not necessarily a negative trait but often signified resilience and strength in the face of opposition. It reflects a character who does not shy away from difficult challenges but engages them with courage.
Jeribai is listed among King David’s elite warriors in 1 Chronicles 11:46. His inclusion alongside his brother Joshaviah shows that faithful service often happens within the context of community and shared purpose. These men stood firm during turbulent times, providing stability to their leader and their people.
For your own life, this name serves as a quiet reminder that struggle can be part of God’s plan for strength. You are not alone in your battles. Like Jeribai, you may find that your faithful endurance contributes to the greater good around you, even when your role seems small or unnoticed.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Jeribai1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וִ/ירִיבַ֥י1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 11:46
Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite,
This verse identifies Jeribai as a son of Elnaam and brother to Joshaviah, highlighting the importance of family loyalty within David’s military ranks.