עִירִי (i.ri)
i.ri
Iri
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 Iri appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in 1 Chronicles 7:7 as a member of the tribe of Benjamin. He is identified specifically as the son of Bela and one of several brothers who trace their lineage back to the patriarchs during the era leading up to the Egyptian sojourn. Because this entry is isolated within a genealogical list, the text provides no narrative details about his life or deeds.
Etymologically, the name suggests a connection to an urban setting, often interpreted as meaning "belonging to a city" or derived from the word for city (ir). In the context of Benjamin’s family tree, this designation likely serves to distinguish him from other relatives rather than indicating a specific historical role. The name reflects a common pattern in Israelite genealogies where personal names encode geographic or social attributes.
As a proper noun occurring in a single verse, Iri functions primarily as a link in the ancestral chain that connects the tribe of Benjamin to its broader patriarchal roots. His mention underscores the meticulous preservation of family lines in Chronicles, ensuring that even lesser-known figures like Iri remain part of the recorded heritage.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Iri appears in a single verse within the Hebrew Bible, recorded in 1 Chronicles 7:7 as a son of Bela from the tribe of Benjamin. His inclusion in this genealogical list highlights how Scripture values every individual within God's people, regardless of whether their personal story is fully detailed.
Etymologically, Iri likely means 'belonging to a city,' reflecting an urban connection common in Israelite naming patterns. While we lack specific narrative details about his life, his presence reminds us that our ancestry is carefully preserved and significant to God's broader historical plan. This quiet witness encourages believers to trust in the meticulous care God takes with every member of His family.
Such records invite reflection on the continuity of faith across generations. Even those whose names appear only once contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's heritage, pointing forward to the ultimate lineage found in Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Iri1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/עִירִ֜י1×