מִתְנִי

a Mithnite, or inhabitant of Methen

Definition

Mithnîy refers to a person from a place called Methen, specifically denoting a 'Mithnite' or inhabitant of that location. It is a gentilic noun used to identify an individual's origin. The term appears only once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 11:43, where it describes Joshaphat the Mithnite, one of King David's mighty warriors. No other biblical passages provide additional context or differing meanings for this word, leaving Methen's exact location uncertain.

Biblical Usage

This word is used a single time in the entire Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 11:43, within a list of David's mighty men. Its usage is purely descriptive, identifying Joshaphat by his geographical origin. There are no patterns of usage across different books or contexts, as it is a hapax legomenon (a word occurring only once).

Etymology

Mithnîy is derived as a gentilic or patrial noun, likely from an unused Hebrew root or place name meaning 'slenderness' or possibly referring to a thin or elongated geographical feature. It follows the common Hebrew pattern for indicating origin (like 'Yehudi' for a Judean). The exact source location, Methen, is not otherwise attested in the biblical text.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, identifying individuals by their town or region of origin was a common practice, especially in official lists like military rosters or genealogies. The mention of Joshaphat as the Mithnite, even though Methen is otherwise unknown, highlights the value placed on community and geographical identity within the tribal structure of Israel. It signifies that even warriors from lesser-known towns were honored in David's army.

Yehudi (H3064) — a Judean, from the tribe of Judah; Yisre'eli (H3481) — an Israelite, from the people/nation of Israel; Beney (suffix) — 'sons of' used for tribal/group affiliation (e.g., Bnei-Yisrael).

Word Details

Scripture References