מֵרֵעַ (me.re.a)
me.re.a
companion
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Definition
Definition
Brown-Driver-Briggs
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word for companion, me.re.a, points to someone who stands beside you in fellowship. It describes a friend or associate, often implying a close bond of loyalty and shared experience. In ancient Israel, having such companions was vital for social stability and personal support.
This term appears in stories that highlight both the comfort and the complexity of human relationships. For instance, in Judges 14:20, it notes how Samson’s wife was given to his companion after their marriage ended. This reminds us that while companionship offers connection, it also requires care and faithfulness to maintain.
When we seek friends who are true companions, we reflect a desire for community that God designed for our good. These relationships can strengthen our walk with Him and provide encouragement during difficult times.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to/ companion/ his2×
- friend[s]/ his2×
- to/ companion/ your1×
- companions1×
- close friend/ his1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מֵֽרֵעֵ֔/הוּ1×
- מֵֽרֵעִ֔ים1×
- מֵ֣רֵעֵ֔/הוּ1×
- מְ֭רֵעֵ/הוּ1×
- לְ/מֵרֵעֶ֑/ךָ1×
- לְ/מֵרֵעֵ֑/הוּ1×
- לְ/מֵ֣רֵעֵ֔/הוּ1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 14:20
But Samson’s wife was given to his companion, who had been his friend.
This verse shows the word used to describe a man who took over Samson's wife, highlighting the social expectations surrounding companionship and marriage.
-
Genesis 26:26
Then Abimelech went to him from Gerar with Ahuzzath his friend, and Phicol the captain of his army.
Here the term refers to Abimelech’s friend, illustrating how such relationships were formalized even among royalty and leaders.
-
Judges 14:11
When they saw him, they brought thirty companions to be with him.
The thirty companions brought to Samson demonstrate the cultural practice of surrounding a guest or groom with a retinue of friends.