מַחְלִי (mach.li)
mach.li
Mahlite
N:N--PGQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--PG
Word Overview
The noun machli refers to the Mahlites, a specific clan within the tribe of Levi. This term appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in the book of Numbers (3:24 and 18:13), where it identifies the descendants of Mahli, son of Merari. As a gentilic or collective noun, it distinguishes this family line from other Levitical groups responsible for the care of the Tabernacle’s framework and bars.
The name Mahli itself is traditionally interpreted as "my sickness" or "affliction," though the clan’s identity in Scripture is defined by their administrative role rather than this etymology. The sources note that the Mahlites were assigned specific duties regarding the structural components of the portable sanctuary, highlighting the organized nature of Israelite worship.
Because the word occurs so rarely, it serves as a precise marker for genealogical and logistical details in the wilderness narrative. It reminds readers that the Levitical service was divided among distinct families, each with assigned responsibilities, ensuring that the community’s religious life proceeded with order and clarity during their journey.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Mahli carries a meaning often associated with sickness or affliction, yet his descendants, the Mahlites, are remembered for their steady service in caring for the Tabernacle's framework. This contrast offers a quiet comfort: our origins or personal struggles do not disqualify us from being part of God’s ordered work. In Numbers 3:33, the Mahlites are listed among the families of Merari, showing that every clan had a specific, vital role in maintaining the sanctuary.
When we look at Numbers 26:58, we see this lineage preserved through generations. The Mahlites were entrusted with the heavy burdens of the portable sanctuary—the frames and bars that held everything together. This reminds us that God values the unseen, structural work that keeps His people stable. Even when our names are not widely known, our faithful participation in community life supports the whole body.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ Mahlite[s]2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/מַּחְלִי֙1×
- הַ/מַּחְלִ֔י1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 3:33
Of Merari was the family of the Mahlites and the family of the Mushites. These are the families of Merari.
This verse establishes the Mahlites as a distinct family within Merari's line, highlighting their specific place in the Tabernacle's organizational structure.
-
Numbers 26:58
These are the families of Levi: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, and the family of the Korahites. Kohath became the father of Amram.
Here the Mahlites are counted again during the census, confirming that this clan remained a recognized and enduring part of Levi's heritage.