Mahalath
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Mahalath in the Bible?
Mahalath is identified in Genesis 28:9 as a wife of Esau, daughter of Ishmael and sister of Nebaioth, and in 2 Chronicles 11:18 as a wife of Rehoboam, daughter of Jerubbaal and granddaughter of Abigail. The name also appears in the superscriptions of Psalms 53 and 88.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these distinct individuals clarifies the genealogical connections between the Edomite, Ishmaelite, and Judean royal lines, while recognizing the name's use in psalm titles aids in analyzing the liturgical or editorial history of the Psalter.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Mahalath reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Mahalath in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Mahalath clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Genesis 28:92 Chronicles 11:18
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Mahalath." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/mahalath/