### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mâchôwl**, represented by `{{H4235}}`, is used as a proper name for an Israelite. While the term is also defined as "dancing," its sole biblical appearance is as a personal name. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying a specific individual through his sons.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4235}}` is found in a passage describing the great wisdom of Solomon. In [[1 Kings 4:31]], Solomon is said to be wiser `{{H2449}}` than all other men `{{H120}}`, including specific renowned figures. Among these are Heman, Chalcol, and Darda, who are identified as "the sons of **Mahol**." In this context, the name serves as a patronymic, anchoring the identity of these wise men to their father and establishing their reputation, which makes the comparison to Solomon's wisdom more impactful. The verse concludes that Solomon's fame `{{H8034}}` spread through all the surrounding nations `{{H1471}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Mâchôwl**'s only appearance connects it to several important concepts:
* `{{H2449}}` **châkam** (to be wise): This root is central, as Mahol's sons were benchmarks for wisdom against which Solomon was measured [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* `{{H120}}` **ʼâdâm** (man): This word establishes the scope of Solomon's wisdom, noting he was wiser than all other human beings [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (fame): This term, defined as an appellation or a memorial of individuality, describes the renown that resulted from Solomon's superior wisdom [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (nation): This word highlights the extent of Solomon's reputation, which was known among foreign nations and Gentiles [[1 Kings 4:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4235}}` is derived entirely from its contextual role in highlighting divinely-endowed wisdom.
* **A Benchmark for Wisdom:** Mahol is remembered as the father of men who were themselves standards of wisdom. Their existence serves to elevate the God-given wisdom of Solomon, showing it surpassed the highest levels of human intellect [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* **Legacy Through Descendants:** The name Mahol is preserved in scripture only because he was the father of famous sons. This illustrates the biblical concept of a name `{{H8034}}` and legacy being established through the character and reputation of one's children.
* **The Reach of God-Given Fame:** The passage connects wisdom directly to fame that crossed into all nations `{{H1471}}`. The reputation of Mahol's sons provides a human-scale example of fame, which is then dwarfed by Solomon's international renown, a direct result of God's blessing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4235}}` is not a theological term but a proper name, **Mâchôwl**, whose significance is entirely tied to its single appearance. It functions as a minor detail that serves a major purpose: to provide a concrete, human standard of wisdom that, by comparison, magnifies the extraordinary and divine nature of the wisdom granted to Solomon. The name is preserved as a testament to the fame of his sons, which in turn helps frame the unparalleled greatness of Solomon's reputation.
TRV