Etymology and Meaning: The name Malchi'ah, also spelled Malchijah, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh is King" or "My King is Yahweh." This name reflects a common theme in Hebrew nomenclature, emphasizing the sovereignty and kingship of God.

Biblical References:

1. Malchi'ah the Son of Rechab: One of the notable figures named Malchi'ah is mentioned in the context of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah's leadership. In Nehemiah 3:14 , it is recorded, "Malchijah son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and installed its doors, bolts, and bars." This Malchi'ah was a leader responsible for a specific section of the wall, demonstrating his commitment to the restoration of Jerusalem and the community's spiritual and physical renewal.

2. Malchi'ah the Goldsmith: Another Malchi'ah is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:31 , "Next to him, Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, made repairs as far as the house of the temple servants and the merchants, opposite the Inspection Gate, and as far as the room above the corner." This Malchi'ah was involved in the reconstruction efforts, highlighting the diverse skills and trades that contributed to the rebuilding project.

3. Malchi'ah the Priest: In Nehemiah 3:11 , Malchi'ah is also listed among the priests who participated in the repairs: "Malchijah son of Harim and Hasshub son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens." This indicates that Malchi'ah was a priestly figure, actively involved in the physical and spiritual restoration of the city.

4. Malchi'ah in the Lineage of Priests: In 1 Chronicles 9:12 , Malchi'ah is mentioned as part of the priestly lineage: "Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah; and Maasai son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer." This reference situates Malchi'ah within the broader context of the priestly families serving in the temple.

5. Malchi'ah in the Time of Jeremiah: In Jeremiah 38:6 , Malchi'ah is mentioned in a different context: "So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the cistern of Malchijah, the king’s son, which was in the courtyard of the guard. They lowered Jeremiah by ropes into the cistern, which had no water but only mud, and Jeremiah sank into the mud." This Malchi'ah, identified as the king's son, owned a cistern used to imprison the prophet Jeremiah, reflecting the political and religious tensions of the time.

Historical and Theological Significance: The various individuals named Malchi'ah in the Bible illustrate the diverse roles and responsibilities within the community of Israel, from leadership and craftsmanship to priestly duties. Their contributions to the rebuilding of Jerusalem under Nehemiah underscore the collective effort required for the restoration of the city and the reestablishment of religious practices. The mention of Malchi'ah in Jeremiah's narrative highlights the complex interplay between political authority and prophetic ministry in ancient Israel.

Cultural Context: The name Malchi'ah, with its theophoric element "Yah," reflects the deep-seated belief in Yahweh's kingship and sovereignty. This belief was central to the identity and faith of the Israelite community, influencing their understanding of leadership, worship, and societal organization. The various roles attributed to individuals named Malchi'ah demonstrate the integration of faith and daily life in ancient Israel, where religious devotion and civic duty were intertwined.Malchi'ah (3 Occurrences)

Jeremiah 21:1
The word that hath been unto Jeremiah from Jehovah, in the king Zedekiah's sending unto him Pashhur son of Malchiah, and Zephaniah son of Maaseiah the priest, saying,
(See RSV)

Jeremiah 38:1
And Shephatiah son of Mattan, and Gedaliah son of Pashhur, and Jucal son of Shelemiah, and Pashhur son of Malchiah, hear the words that Jeremiah is speaking unto all the people, saying,
(See RSV)

Jeremiah 38:6
And they take Jeremiah, and cast him into the pit of Malchiah son of the king, that 'is' in the court of the prison, and they send down Jeremiah with cords; and in the pit there is no water, but mire, and Jeremiah sinketh in the mire.
(See RSV)

Malchi'ah (3 Occurrences)
Malchi'ah. Malchiah, Malchi'ah. Malchiel . Multi-Version Concordance
Malchi'ah (3 Occurrences). Jeremiah 21:1 The word that hath ...
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Malchiah (10 Occurrences)

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Malchiel (3 Occurrences)

/m/malchiel.htm - 74k

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