Merari

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew מְרָרִי (Merārî), commonly linked with “bitter” or “bitterness” (traditional etymology; uncertain)
• Period/Era: Patriarchal Period (Levi’s family line)
• Main References: Exodus 6:16; Numbers 3:17, 33–37; Numbers 4:29–33; Numbers 7:8; 1 Chronicles 6:1, 19, 29–30
• Key Connections: Son of Levi; brother of Gershon and Kohath; ancestor of the Merarite clan serving under Moses and Aaron

Who was Merari?

Merari was one of Levi’s three sons, named in Israel’s foundational genealogies.
His descendants formed the Merarite clan, a major division among the Levites.
In the wilderness, Merarites were assigned practical responsibilities for tabernacle components.

Key Events & Achievements

• Census Role: The Merarites were counted among the Levites for sanctuary service in the wilderness community (Numbers 3:33–37).
• Transport Duties: Merarite families were appointed to carry the frames, bars, pillars, bases, and related equipment of the tabernacle (Numbers 4:29–33).
• Provision for Service: They received two wagons and four oxen for transporting their assigned materials (Numbers 7:8).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Merari’s line highlights how Israel’s worship system depended on ordered family service and shared responsibilities around the sanctuary.

Key Verse

“And of the sons of Merari: Mahli and Mushi.” — Exodus 6:19, ESV