Brief Overview of Μαλελεήλ (Strong’s G3121: Maleleēl)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding the Greek word Μαλελεήλ (Maleleēl) is crucial for Biblical studies, especially when exploring genealogical references in the New Testament. Appearing in Luke 3:37, this name is significant because it links to a key figure in the lineage of Jesus, tracing back to the patriarchs. Such genealogical references are essential for understanding the continuity and fulfillment of Biblical prophecies, as well as the deep connections between the Old and New Testaments. This word also offers a glimpse into how ancient cultures recorded and valued lineage and heritage, reflecting the broader cultural and religious contexts of the time.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Μαλελεήλ (Maleleēl) [mah-leh-LEH-el]

Etymology: The name Μαλελεήλ is derived from the Hebrew name מַהֲלַלְאֵל (Mahalalel), which can be broken down into two components: “mahalal,” meaning “praise,” and “el,” referring to God. Thus, the name essentially means “praise of God” or “the blessed God.”

Part of Speech: Proper noun. As a name, it is used to refer to a specific individual in genealogical records and does not change form based on grammatical case, gender, or number like other Greek nouns.

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Defining Meanings

1. Praise of God: The primary meaning of Μαλελεήλ, inherited from its Hebrew origin, is “praise of God.” This reflects a tradition in ancient cultures of bestowing names that conveyed a relationship with or reverence for the divine.
2. Genealogical Importance: In the New Testament, the name Μαλελεήλ represents an important ancestral link in the genealogy of Jesus. Understanding these names is key to grasping the theological narrative presented in the Gospels.
3. Cultural Significance: The use of names like Μαλελεήλ in genealogies also highlights the significance placed on heritage, lineage, and the transmission of faith and values from one generation to the next.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Ἐνώχ (Henōch) [eh-NOHK]: Another genealogical name that appears in the lineage of Jesus, similar to Μαλελεήλ, representing a figure with a notable relationship with God.
2. Νῶε (Nōe) [NO-eh]: Noah, another name in the genealogy, is related to themes of divine promise and salvation, paralleling the meaning of “praise of God” in Μαλελεήλ.
3. Ἀβραάμ (Abraam) [ahv-RAHM]: Abraham, a pivotal figure in the genealogy, emphasizes the covenantal promises that underlie the lineage of Jesus, similar to how Μαλελεήλ signifies divine praise and blessing.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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As a proper noun, Μαλελεήλ does not have variations in gender, number, or case, unlike other Greek nouns. It remains consistent in form across different contexts. In the genealogical lists, it appears in the nominative case, denoting its function as a subject in the sentence structure.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexical insights into Μαλελεήλ focus primarily on its etymological background and significance in genealogical records. Thayer’s and BDAG highlight its Hebrew origins and the meaning “praise of God.” LSJ and Vine’s Expository Dictionary provide context about its use in Biblical literature, emphasizing its role in the genealogy of Jesus as listed in Luke 3:37. Strong’s Concordance and Moulton and Milligan’s lexicon also emphasize the cultural and religious importance of such names in connecting Old Testament patriarchs with New Testament theology. Each lexicon reflects on how Μαλελεήλ serves as a testament to the continuity of God’s plan throughout the Bible.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 3:37: “[… the son of Μαλελεήλ (Maleleēl), the son of Καινάν (Kainan), the son of Ἐνώς (Enōs), the son of Σήθ (Sēth), the son of Ἀδάμ (Adam), the son of Θεοῦ (Theou)].” This verse places Μαλελεήλ in the genealogy of Jesus, tracing his lineage back to Adam, emphasizing the connection between Jesus and the broader human story.
2. Genesis 5:12 (Septuagint): “And Kainan lived seventy years and became the father of Μαλελεήλ.” This Old Testament reference connects to the same figure, underscoring his role in the ancestral line.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The name Μαλελεήλ (Maleleēl) is a vital link in the genealogy of Jesus, connecting the New Testament narratives to Old Testament patriarchs. Its meaning, “praise of God,” encapsulates the heritage of faith and reverence embedded in the lineage of Christ. Understanding this name helps illuminate the theological and cultural significance of genealogical records in the Bible, where each name carries profound meaning and historical context.

Did You Know?

1. The name Μαλελεήλ appears only once in the New Testament, in the genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:37, linking Jesus to the patriarchal heritage.
2. Μαλελεήλ is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Mahalalel, which means “the blessed God” or “praise of God,” emphasizing the spiritual heritage in names.
3. Genealogies like the one in Luke 3 were crucial for establishing Jesus’ credentials as the Messiah, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.