Abihajil
Levite of the Merarite clan and father of Suriel
Aussi appelé : Abihail
Abijah (Hebrew: 'my father is strength') was a Levite of the Merarite clan during Israel's wilderness journey. He is known as the father of Zuriel, who was appointed head of the Merarite family group. The Merarites constituted one of the three major Levitical clans and were responsible for the structural components of the tabernacle—boards, bars, pillars, and bases. Abijah's clan camped on the north side of the tabernacle and played a vital role in maintaining Israel's portable sanctuary throughout the wilderness. The name Abijah is borne by several individuals in the Old Testament, testifying to its widespread use in Israelite culture.
Famille
Événements clés
Suriel appointed as head of the Merarites
Abihajil's son Suriel was appointed as head of the Merarite clan during the wilderness journey, as commanded by the Lord to Moses.
The campsite and duties of the Merarites at the tabernacle
The Merarite clan, led by Suriel son of Abihajil, camped on the north side of the tabernacle. They were responsible for carrying and guarding the tabernacle's frames, crossbars, posts, bases, and all its equipment during Israel's journey through the wilderness.
The mustering of the Levites in the wilderness
During the census in the wilderness, the Levites, including the Merarite clan to which Abihajil belonged, were mustered by command of the Lord to Moses. All male Levites from one month old and upward were counted.