מְרִיא

מְרִיא

stall-fed; often (as noun) a beeve

Definition

The Hebrew noun מְרִיא (mᵉrîyʼ) refers to a stall-fed or fatted animal, specifically cattle that have been deliberately fattened for consumption or sacrifice. It denotes livestock, especially oxen or bullocks, that were raised in confinement and given rich feed to produce high-quality meat, making them prime offerings or food for feasts. In prophetic contexts like Isaiah 1:11 and Amos 5:22, these 'fatted beasts' are mentioned in God's rejection of empty ritual sacrifices that lack sincere obedience. In eschatological passages like Isaiah 11:6, the term appears in the peaceful vision where the 'fatling' (מְרִיא) coexists with predators, symbolizing a transformed creation.

Biblical Usage

מְרִיא is used eight times in the Old Testament, primarily in narratives about royal sacrifices and prophetic critiques of worship. In 2 Samuel 6:13 and 1 Kings 1:9, 1:19, 1:25, it describes the fatted cattle sacrificed during significant events like David bringing the ark to Jerusalem and Adonijah's feast. The prophets Isaiah (1:11), Ezekiel (39:18), and Amos (5:22) use it to emphasize God's displeasure with mere external ritual, where such prized animals are offered without justice or faithfulness. Isaiah 11:6 uses it uniquely in a metaphorical vision of peace.

Etymology

מְרִיא derives from the root מָרָא (H4754), meaning 'to be fat' or 'to be gross,' conveying the idea of being well-fed or stout. It is related to מָרֵא (H4756), meaning 'lord' or 'master,' possibly through the concept of domineering strength associated with fattened, robust animals. This connection highlights how these animals were considered superior or choice due to their controlled rearing.

Semantic Range

This word carries theological weight as it highlights the tension between external religious observance and heartfelt devotion. In prophetic books, מְרִיא represents the best offerings Israel could give, yet God rejects them when disconnected from justice and righteousness (Isaiah 1:11, Amos 5:22). It underscores that God values ethical living over lavish rituals. In Isaiah 11:6, its use in the peaceable kingdom points to eschatological restoration, where even traditionally vulnerable 'fatlings' are safe, enriching our understanding of God's ultimate redemption of creation. In ancient Israel, stall-fed animals were luxury items, reserved for special occasions, feasts, or important sacrifices because they required significant resources to fatten. Unlike pasture-grazed livestock, these animals symbolized wealth, honor, and deliberate preparation for worship or celebration. This contrasts with modern industrial farming, where fattening is common; in biblical times, it was a mark of intentionality and value, making such offerings particularly meaningful in religious and social contexts. בָּקָר (bāqār, H1241) — a general term for cattle or herd, whereas מְרִיא specifies fattened cattle. פַּר (par, H6499) — often refers to a young bull or bullock, especially for sacrifice, but not necessarily stall-fed. אַיִל (ʼayil, H352) — typically a ram, used for sacrifices, differing in species and not emphasizing fattening.

Word Details