Topical Encyclopedia Mahli is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogies of the Levites. He is recognized as a descendant of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and is associated with the Levitical priestly line. Mahli's name is found in several passages, highlighting his role and lineage within the tribe of Levi.Genealogy and Family Lineage Mahli is identified as the son of Merari, who was one of the three sons of Levi. The sons of Levi—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—were the progenitors of the Levitical families, each with specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple. Mahli, as a descendant of Merari, belonged to the Merarite clan, which was responsible for the care and transportation of the tabernacle's structural components, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases. In 1 Chronicles 6:19, the genealogy of Levi is outlined: "The sons of Merari: Mahli and Mushi. These are the clans of the Levites according to their families." This passage establishes Mahli as a significant figure within the Merarite division of the Levites. Role and Duties The Merarites, including Mahli's descendants, were assigned specific responsibilities in the service of the tabernacle. Numbers 3:36-37 details these duties: "The duties of the sons of Merari were the tabernacle’s frames, crossbars, posts, bases, all its equipment, and everything related to their use, as well as the posts of the surrounding courtyard with their bases, tent pegs, and ropes." Mahli's lineage continued to play a vital role in the religious life of Israel, particularly in the maintenance and transportation of the tabernacle during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. This service was crucial for the proper worship and sacrificial system established by God through Moses. Descendants and Legacy Mahli's descendants are mentioned in various genealogical records, emphasizing the continuity of his line within the Levitical priesthood. In 1 Chronicles 23:21-23, the sons of Mahli are listed: "The sons of Merari: Mahli and Mushi. The sons of Mahli: Eleazar and Kish. Eleazar died without having sons, but he had daughters who married their cousins, the sons of Kish." This passage highlights the importance of maintaining the Levitical lineage, even through the marriage of daughters to their relatives, ensuring the continuation of Mahli's family line within the priestly duties. Significance in Israel's Worship Mahli's role as a progenitor of the Merarite Levites underscores the structured and organized nature of Israel's worship system. The division of labor among the Levites, including Mahli's descendants, reflects the meticulous care and reverence required in the service of God. Each family had specific tasks, contributing to the overall function and sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. In summary, Mahli is a notable figure within the Levitical genealogies, representing the Merarite branch of the Levites. His descendants played a crucial role in the religious life of ancient Israel, ensuring the proper care and transportation of the tabernacle's structural elements. Through Mahli's lineage, the faithfulness and dedication required in the service of God are exemplified, highlighting the importance of each family's contribution to the worship and spiritual life of the nation. Smith's Bible Dictionary Mahli(sick).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAHLIma'-li (machli, "a sick or weak one"): Strong's Hebrew 4250. Machli -- descendant of Mahli... Machli. 4251 . descendant of Mahli. Transliteration: Machli Phonetic Spelling: (makh-lee') Short Definition: Mahlites. ... of Mahli NASB Word Usage Mahlites (2). ... /hebrew/4250.htm - 6k 4249. Machli -- a Levite, also a son of Mushi Thesaurus Mahli (11 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAHLI. ... (2) A son of Mushi, Mahli's brother, bears the same name (1 Chronicles 6:47; 1 Chronicles 23:23; 1 Chronicles 24:30). ... /m/mahli.htm - 10k Mushi (8 Occurrences) Merar'i (32 Occurrences) Merari (38 Occurrences) Kish (18 Occurrences) Jerimoth (10 Occurrences) Ish-sechel (1 Occurrence) Eder (6 Occurrences) Clans (120 Occurrences) Levi (79 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Mahli (11 Occurrences)Exodus 6:19 Numbers 3:20 1 Chronicles 6:19 1 Chronicles 6:29 1 Chronicles 6:47 1 Chronicles 23:21 1 Chronicles 23:23 1 Chronicles 24:26 1 Chronicles 24:28 1 Chronicles 24:30 Ezra 8:18 Subtopics Related Terms |