1 Chronicles 7 18

1 Chronicles 7:18 kjv

And his sister Hammoleketh bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah.

1 Chronicles 7:18 nkjv

His sister Hammoleketh bore Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

1 Chronicles 7:18 niv

His sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer and Mahlah.

1 Chronicles 7:18 esv

And his sister Hammolecheth bore Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

1 Chronicles 7:18 nlt

Makir's sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

1 Chronicles 7 verses

1 Chronicles 7 18 Meaning

The verse, nestled within the genealogy of Ephraim, names three individuals—Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah—as the sons born to Hammolecheth, described as "his sister." This brief entry highlights the continuation of a specific branch within the tribe of Ephraim, emphasizing her foundational role in bearing descendants.

1 Chronicles 7 18 Context

1 Chronicles 7 is part of a series of genealogies that make up the initial chapters of the book. These detailed lists trace the tribal lines of Israel, particularly for the returning exiles during the post-exilic period (5th-4th century BC). The primary purpose of the Chronicler (the traditional author) in compiling such extensive records was multi-faceted: to re-establish the identity of the covenant community, legitimate land claims, affirm who belonged to the people of Israel, delineate proper priestly and Levitical service, and most importantly, underscore God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially concerning the Davidic line (though not directly in this verse) and the continuous existence of His chosen people.

Within this chapter, verses 14-29 focus specifically on the tribe of Ephraim, a prominent Northern Kingdom tribe, despite its past history of idolatry and exile. This particular verse (7:18) specifies the progeny of a key female figure within this lineage, ensuring the continuity of the family unit is documented and honored, underscoring the preservation of this branch of Ephraim.

1 Chronicles 7 18 Word analysis

• And his sister: This phrase refers to a female relative of one of the previously mentioned male descendants of Ephraim, though the exact antecedent ("his") is somewhat ambiguous. Given the context of v. 23 ("Ephraim... his daughter was Sheerah"), some interpret "his sister" in v.18 as Ephraim's daughter, or a descendant's sister. The mention of a "sister" specifically by her own name and not simply as "daughter of X" highlights her prominent status and importance within the genealogy. It's unusual for women to be given such prominence in these generally patrilineal lists, suggesting she was a significant figure, possibly owning property or being a leader.
• Hammolecheth (הַמּוֹלֶכֶת - Hammolecheth): The name is highly significant. It means "the queen" or "she who reigns." Derived from the Hebrew root מלך (malak), "to be king," this rare female proper name suggests a woman of high standing, authority, or considerable influence within her family or clan. Her unique designation points to more than mere biological lineage; she likely held an honored or even governing role.
• bore (יָלְדָה - yaldea): This Hebrew verb, indicating the act of giving birth, emphasizes the essential role of women in the continuation and perpetuation of the family lineage. In a biblical context, bearing children was highly valued as a blessing and a fulfillment of God's command to be fruitful and multiply.
• Ishhod (אִישְׁהוֹד - ʾîshḥoḏ): Meaning "Man of Majesty" or "Man of Glory." This name likely points to a person of dignity or notable reputation within his community.
• and Abiezer (וַאֲבִיעֶזֶר - waʾăḇîʿezer): Meaning "My Father is Help." This is a relatively common name in Israel. It is crucial to note that this Abiezer is not the well-known ancestor of Gideon's clan in Judges 6, but a distinct individual in the Ephraimite genealogy documented here. This distinction prevents conflation of individuals across different tribal lineages.
• and Mahlah (וּמַחְלָה - ûmaḥlâ): The name Mahlah typically means "sickness" or "weakness" from one root, or possibly "pardon/forgiveness" from another less common root. More significantly, it is a prominent female name in Numbers (Num 26:33; 27:1), belonging to one of Zelophehad's daughters who successfully argued for inheritance rights. Here, however, Mahlah is listed as a son of Hammolecheth. While peculiar, this could indicate a variant meaning of the name when used for a male, or a less common male application of a name more frequently assigned to females. In genealogies, names were sometimes carried across genders or had different etymological understandings over time. The primary point is its function as a specific identifier of Hammolecheth's third child.

Word-group analysis

• And his sister Hammolecheth bore: This phrasing significantly deviates from the typical male-centric genealogies. By naming Hammolecheth directly and highlighting her as the bearer of sons, the Chronicler elevates her importance. It suggests that her line was noteworthy enough to be traced through her, perhaps because of her personal standing, unique influence, or the specific line of descent stemming from her, thereby enriching the record of the Ephraimite tribe's continuity. This structure subtly recognizes the indispensable contribution of women to the lineage of God's people.

1 Chronicles 7 18 Bonus section

The inclusion of Hammolecheth in the genealogy not only validates her historical existence and role but also subtly reminds the audience that God's plans are unfolded through both men and women. Her unique name, "The Queen," could have been an inherited honorific or a testament to her personal character and influence, possibly suggesting she maintained or founded a significant family branch, akin to how Sheerah (Ephraim's daughter, 1 Chr 7:24) is credited with building cities. Such specific mentions serve to humanize what can often seem like dry lists of names, highlighting individuals who played crucial, perhaps even foundational, roles in the tapestry of Israel's history and ongoing identity before God. The careful documentation also served a theological purpose, showing that the Israelite community post-exile was a direct continuation of God's covenant people, and their history was indeed intertwined with divine promises.

1 Chronicles 7 18 Commentary

1 Chronicles 7:18 is a concise yet significant entry within the extensive genealogies of the book. Its importance lies primarily in affirming the meticulous preservation of tribal records for the Ephraimite lineage, which was crucial for establishing identity and land rights among the returning exiles. The Chronicler's intent was to demonstrate the continuity of Israel through centuries, even through periods of diaspora and dispersion. The specific mention of "Hammolecheth" is particularly noteworthy. While most genealogies follow male lines, her explicit naming and role as "mother" signify a prominent or influential position within her family or clan. This underscores that while patriarchy dominated Israelite society, specific women played vital roles that warranted their direct mention and remembrance, sometimes linked to significant land ownership or family leadership. It reaffirms God's meticulous care for the continuity of His people and the fulfillment of His promises, a faithfulness reflected in the endurance of these family lines.