מַחְלִי

מַחְלִי

Machli, the name of two Israelites

Definition

Machli is a proper name given to two distinct individuals in the Old Testament, both Levites. The primary figure is Machli, the son of Merari and grandson of Levi, who founded one of the major Levitical clans (Exodus 6:19, Numbers 3:20). His descendants, the Machlites, were assigned specific duties in the tabernacle and temple service. A second, lesser-known Machli appears in the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles 6:47 as a son of Mushi, indicating the name continued within the Levitical lineage.

Biblical Usage

The name Machli is used exclusively in genealogical and administrative contexts within the Pentateuch and Chronicles. It identifies Levitical lineage, particularly within the clan of Merari, and is used to organize priestly duties and temple assignments. Key references include its foundational mention in Exodus 6:19 and its repeated use in the detailed genealogies and divisions of labor in 1 Chronicles 23-24.

Etymology

Derived from the Hebrew root חָלָה (ḥālâ, H2470), meaning 'to be weak, sick, or afflicted.' As a proper name, Machli likely means 'sickly' or 'weak one.' This follows a common ancient Near Eastern practice of giving children names that may reflect circumstances of birth or a parent's petition to God.

Semantic Range

While the name itself is not theologically loaded, its bearers' identity as Levites connects it to the theology of priesthood, worship, and God's ordained service. Understanding Machli's place in the Levitical genealogy highlights God's meticulous organization for Israel's worship and the importance of lineage in the Old Covenant. It underscores that even individuals with seemingly mundane roles were part of God's structured plan for holiness. In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried descriptive meaning or reflected a parent's experience. A name meaning 'sickly' might indicate a difficult birth or a hope for God's protection over a frail child. As a Levitical name, it signifies membership in a tribe set apart for religious service, a central pillar of Israelite identity and social structure. Merari (Merârîy, H4847) — Machli's father and founder of the other main Levitical sub-clan. Mushi (Mûshîy, H4187) — The father of a later Machli, representing another branch within the Merarite line.

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