מַהֲלַלְאֵל (ma.ha.lal.el)
ma.ha.lal.el
Mahalalel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Mahalalel, meaning "praise of God," appears in two distinct genealogical lines within Scripture. In Genesis 5:12, he is identified as the son of Kenan and father of Jared, marking him as the fourth generation from Adam through Seth. This lineage traces the early patriarchs who lived before the Flood, a period characterized by long lifespans and the gradual spread of humanity.
A second individual bearing this name appears in the post-exilic records of Nehemiah 11:4 and 1 Chronicles 2:9. Here, he is listed as a descendant of Perez, the son of Judah. This connection places him within the royal line of David, linking the ancient patriarchs to the tribe from which the Messiah would eventually arise.
The New Testament also references this name in Luke 3:37, where Jesus’ genealogy includes "Mahalaleel" (Greek: Maleleēl). This inclusion bridges the gap between the early ancestors of humanity and the historical figures of Israel, affirming the continuity of God’s covenant people across generations. The repetition of the name underscores a theme of worship woven through both the pre-Flood era and the restored community of Judah.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Mahalalel means "praise of God." It appears in the early genealogies of Genesis, connecting Adam to Noah, and later in the lineage of Judah, leading to King David and Jesus. This repetition shows that praise has always been a part of God's people, whether in ancient times or after the exile.
When you read these names, remember that each person was chosen by God to carry forward His covenant. Mahalalel’s life reminds us that our own stories are part of a larger narrative. Even when we do not see immediate results, our faithfulness contributes to something eternal.
This name invites us to consider how our daily lives can reflect praise. It is not just about loud declarations but a steady trust in God’s plan across generations. Your place in this story matters deeply.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Mahalalel7×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל2×
- מַהֲלַלְאֵ֖ל2×
- מַֽהֲלַלְאֵֽל\׃1×
- מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֗ל1×
- מַהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 5:12
Kenan lived seventy years, then became the father of Mahalalel.
This verse establishes Mahalalel as a key link in the pre-Flood lineage, showing God's preservation of the line through Seth.
-
Genesis 5:15
Mahalalel lived sixty-five years, then became the father of Jared.
Here, Mahalalel becomes the father of Jared, continuing the generational chain that leads toward the Messiah.
-
Nehemiah 11:4
Some of the children of Judah and of the children of Benjamin lived in Jerusalem. Of the children of Judah: Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, of the children of Perez;
This occurrence places a Mahalalel in the post-exilic community, linking the restored tribe of Judah back to the ancient patriarchs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Mahalalel mean?
Why is Mahalalel mentioned twice in the Bible?
How does Mahalalel connect to Jesus?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 3 books)
Genesis 5 verses
Kenan lived seventy years, then became the father of Mahalalel.
Genesis 5:13Kenan lived after he became the father of Mahalalel eight hundred forty years, and became the father of other sons and…
Genesis 5:15Mahalalel lived sixty-five years, then became the father of Jared.
Genesis 5:16Mahalalel lived after he became the father of Jared eight hundred thirty years, and became the father of other sons and…
Genesis 5:17All of the days of Mahalalel were eight hundred ninety-five years, then he died.