Name Meaning: The name Maleleel, also spelled Mahalaleel, is of Hebrew origin and is often interpreted to mean "Praise of God" or "The Blessed God." This name reflects a tradition of naming that emphasizes reverence and acknowledgment of divine attributes.

Biblical References:

1. Genealogy in Genesis: Maleleel is mentioned in the genealogical records of Genesis as a descendant of Adam. He is the son of Kenan and the father of Jared. His lineage is part of the line that leads to Noah, highlighting his role in the antediluvian patriarchal history. Genesis 5:12-17 states: "When Kenan was 70 years old, he became the father of Mahalaleel. And after he had become the father of Mahalaleel, Kenan lived 840 years and had other sons and daughters. So Kenan lived a total of 910 years, and then he died. When Mahalaleel was 65 years old, he became the father of Jared. And after he had become the father of Jared, Mahalaleel lived 830 years and had other sons and daughters. So Mahalaleel lived a total of 895 years, and then he died."

2. Chronicles Record: Maleleel is also listed in the genealogies found in 1 Chronicles 1:1-2 , which reiterates his place in the lineage from Adam to Noah: "Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah."

3. Mention in the New Testament: The genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Luke includes Maleleel, underscoring his significance in the ancestral line leading to the Messiah. Luke 3:37-38 records: "the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalaleel, the son of Kenan, the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God."

Historical and Theological Significance:

Maleleel's inclusion in these genealogies serves to connect the early patriarchs with the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan. His life, though not detailed extensively in Scripture, is part of the foundational history that sets the stage for the unfolding of God's covenant with humanity. The genealogical records in which Maleleel appears are crucial for understanding the continuity of God's promises from the creation of the world through to the coming of Jesus Christ.

Lifespan and Legacy:

According to the biblical account, Maleleel lived for 895 years, a testament to the long lifespans attributed to the antediluvian patriarchs. His life, as recorded in Scripture, is marked by the birth of his son Jared, who would become the father of Enoch, a notable figure known for his close walk with God. The legacy of Maleleel is thus intertwined with the faithfulness and righteousness that characterized his descendants, contributing to the spiritual heritage that culminates in the person of Jesus Christ.

Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies served not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's ongoing relationship with His people. The mention of Maleleel in these genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage and the transmission of faith across generations. His name, meaning "Praise of God," reflects a cultural emphasis on names that convey spiritual truths and divine attributes.

Conclusion:

Maleleel, though a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, plays a vital role in the genealogical framework that connects the early patriarchs to the account of redemption. His life and lineage are integral to the biblical testimony of God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plan through history.Maleleel or Mahalaleel

the son of Cainan. (Genesis 5:12) marg.; Luke 3:37

3121. Maleleel -- Mahalaleel, an antediluvian
... Speech: Proper Noun, Indeclinable Transliteration: Maleleel Phonetic Spelling:
(mal-el-eh-ale') Short Definition: Mahalaleel, Maleleel Definition: Mahalaleel ...
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