Moleketh is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. She is referenced in 1 Chronicles 7:18, where she is identified as a member of the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. The passage reads: "His sister Hammoleketh bore Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah" . The name "Moleketh" is sometimes rendered as "Hammoleketh" in various translations, indicating a possible variation or prefix in the original Hebrew text.

Genealogical Context

Moleketh is noted as the sister of Gilead, a descendant of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites, and Moleketh's mention, though brief, contributes to the broader understanding of the family structures within the tribe of Manasseh. Her offspring, Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah, are also listed, indicating her role in the continuation of her family line.

Tribal Significance

The tribe of Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the other being Ephraim. Manasseh's descendants were allotted land on both sides of the Jordan River, with some settling in the Transjordan region. Moleketh's inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage and inheritance in the tribal system of ancient Israel. Her descendants, particularly Abiezer, are noted elsewhere in Scripture. Abiezer is recognized as the ancestor of Gideon, a prominent judge of Israel (Judges 6:11).

Cultural and Historical Insights

The mention of women in biblical genealogies, such as Moleketh, is relatively rare and often signifies a noteworthy aspect of their lineage or their descendants. In the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, genealogies primarily focused on male descendants. Therefore, Moleketh's inclusion may suggest her significance within her family or tribe, possibly due to the achievements or roles of her children.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the genealogies in the Bible, including the mention of figures like Moleketh, highlight God's providential care and the unfolding of His covenant promises through specific family lines. The tribe of Manasseh, as part of the larger narrative of Israel, plays a role in the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moleketh's place in this lineage, though not extensively detailed, is part of the intricate tapestry of God's redemptive history as recorded in Scripture.

Conclusion

While Moleketh is not a central figure in biblical narratives, her mention in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles provides insight into the family structures and tribal affiliations of ancient Israel. Her descendants, particularly through Abiezer, contribute to the unfolding account of God's people and His covenantal faithfulness throughout generations.4447. Moleketh -- an Israelite woman
... 4446, 4447. Moleketh. 4448 . an Israelite woman. Transliteration: Moleketh
Phonetic Spelling: (mo-leh'-keth) Short Definition: Hammolecheth. ... Moleketh. 4448 ...
/hebrew/4447.htm - 6kMoleketh (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Moleketh (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 7:18 And
his sister Hammoleketh bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah. ...
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Moles (1 Occurrence)

/m/moles.htm - 6k

Molech (16 Occurrences)

/m/molech.htm - 24k

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