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מָלוֹן (ma.lon)

ma.lon

lodging

H4411 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 7 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
7 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun malon refers to a place where travelers rest or lodge, such as an inn or a temporary shelter. In the Old Testament, it describes physical locations that provide safety and sustenance for those on the move. This word appears in narratives involving journeys, highlighting the practical need for rest during long travels.

Its usage often underscores themes of hospitality and divine provision. For instance, in Genesis, characters seek malon as they traverse unfamiliar lands, reflecting the cultural importance of offering shelter to guests. The term also appears in prophetic literature, where it may symbolize God’s care for His people or the transient nature of human existence.

Malos carries a sense of refuge and stability, contrasting with the uncertainty of travel. It reminds readers of the value placed on community and support in ancient Near Eastern societies. Through its occurrences, the word invites reflection on how trust in others—and ultimately in God—sustains us through life’s journeys.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Hebrew word malon describes a place of rest for travelers, such as an inn or temporary shelter. In ancient times, these locations were vital for safety and sustenance during long journeys. The term appears in stories about people moving through unfamiliar lands, highlighting how hospitality provided stability when life felt uncertain.

For your faith, this word reminds us that God cares about our practical needs. Just as travelers relied on places to rest, we can trust that God provides refuge and support in our own seasons of transition. Whether you are facing a major change or a daily challenge, His provision meets you where you are.

Malon also points to the value of community. In ancient Near Eastern society, offering shelter was a key expression of care for others. This invites us to consider how we can be places of rest and safety for those around us, reflecting God’s own hospitality in our daily lives.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • at the/ lodging place3×
  • the/ lodging place2×
  • [will be] a lodging place1×
  • [the] lodging place of1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • בַּ/מָּל֑וֹן2×
  • מָל֣וֹן1×
  • מְל֣וֹן1×
  • הַ/מָּל֗וֹן1×
  • הַ/מָּל֔וֹן1×
  • בַּ/מָּל֕וֹן1×

Key Verses

  • Genesis 42:27
    As one of them opened his sack to give his donkey food in the lodging place, he saw his money. Behold, it was in the mouth of his sack.

    This verse shows malon as a practical stopping point where travelers secured their supplies, highlighting the tangible need for rest during a journey.

  • Exodus 4:24
    On the way at a lodging place, Yahweh met Moses and wanted to kill him.

    Here, malon marks a critical moment of divine encounter, showing that even in transit, God meets people in their places of rest.

  • Isaiah 10:29
    They have gone over the pass. They have taken up their lodging at Geba. Ramah trembles. Gibeah of Saul has fled.

    The prophet uses malon to describe an enemy army’s temporary camp, illustrating how these locations served as strategic bases for movement and power.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word malon mean?

Malon refers to a lodging place, such as an inn or shelter where travelers rest. It appears in the Old Testament to describe physical locations that provided safety and sustenance for those on the move.

How is malon different from other words for 'house'?

While other words like bayit refer to a permanent home, malon specifically denotes a temporary stop for travelers. It emphasizes the transient nature of rest rather than a fixed residence.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

Malon occurs seven times in the Old Testament. Notable instances include Genesis 42:27, where Joseph’s brothers find their money at a lodging place, and Exodus 4:24, where God meets Moses on the way.

What spiritual lesson can we learn from malon?

The word reminds us that God provides for our practical needs during life’s journeys. It encourages trust in His provision and invites us to offer hospitality and rest to others as He does for us.

Every Occurrence (7 verses across 5 books)