the same as מָחוֹל; dancing; Machol, an Israelite; Mahol.
Transliteration:Mâchôwl
Pronunciation:maw-khole'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word Mâchôwl (`{{H4235}}`) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a person. Its lexical entry indicates it is "the same as מָחוֹל; dancing; Machol, an Israelite; Mahol." This definition points to a dual nature: it is the proper name "Mahol," yet it is directly linked to the common noun mâchôwl (`{{H4234}}`), which means "dance" or "dancing." Therefore, while Mâchôwl (`{{H4235}}`) refers to a specific individual, its semantic range is deeply rooted in the concept of circular or whirling dance, or potentially a musical instrument like a pipe or flute, from which the proper name is likely derived. Its core meaning is thus a personal name, imbued with the connotations of joyful movement, celebration, or musical artistry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun Mâchôwl (`{{H4235}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of 1 Kings:
* [[1 Kings 4:31]]: "For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about."
In this singular occurrence, Mahol is identified as the father of four individuals: Ethan, Heman, Calcol, and Darda. These sons are presented as paragons of wisdom, serving as a benchmark against which King Solomon's unparalleled wisdom is measured. The context is a description of Solomon's vast wisdom and understanding, surpassing even the most renowned wise men of his time. Mahol's significance here is primarily genealogical, establishing the lineage of these notable figures. The mention of his sons' wisdom and musical prowess (especially Heman and Ethan, known for their musical and poetic contributions in the Psalms) subtly imbues the name Mahol with a connection to these esteemed qualities, even if Mahol himself is not described directly.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is mâchôwl (`{{H4234}}`), the common noun for "dance" or "dancing." This noun frequently appears in contexts of celebration, worship, or mourning, often accompanied by musical instruments (e.g., [[Exodus 15:20]], [[Judges 11:34]], [[Psalm 149:3]]). The underlying verbal root is generally considered to be chûl (`{{H2342}}`) or châlal (`{{H2490}}`), which can mean "to twist," "whirl," "dance," or "to play a pipe/flute." The connection to "flute" is particularly relevant as some scholars suggest "Mahol" could signify "flute player" or "one associated with music," aligning with the known musical abilities of his sons Heman and Ethan. Concepts closely associated with Mâchôwl (`{{H4235}}`) by virtue of his sons include wisdom, music, poetry, and the broader theme of God-given skill and understanding.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Mahol's theological significance is indirect but noteworthy. His primary role is to provide a lineage for Ethan, Heman, Calcol, and Darda, who are presented as figures of considerable wisdom and possibly musical or poetic skill. By naming these individuals as "sons of Mahol," the text establishes a recognized standard of human wisdom against which Solomon's divine wisdom is contrasted and shown to be superior. This highlights the biblical emphasis on God as the ultimate source of true wisdom, surpassing even the greatest human intellect. The potential meaning of Mahol's name ("dance" or "flute") could subtly connect these wise men to a tradition of joyful expression, artistic excellence, or spiritual celebration within Israelite culture, suggesting that wisdom and artistry were not mutually exclusive but could flow from a common source. The mention serves to magnify Solomon's unique divine endowment, underscoring God's sovereign choice and abundant grace.
### Summary
Mâchôwl (`{{H4235}}`) functions as a proper noun, "Mahol," the father of the renowned wise men Ethan, Heman, Calcol, and Darda. While appearing only once in [[1 Kings 4:31]], his name is crucial for establishing the lineage of these figures who serve as a benchmark for human wisdom, against which King Solomon's divinely bestowed wisdom is favorably compared. The name itself is derived from the common Hebrew noun for "dance" (`{{H4234}}`) or possibly "flute," linking Mahol and his progeny to concepts of celebration, music, and artistic expression. Theologically, Mahol's mention indirectly underscores God's ultimate sovereignty as the source of wisdom, demonstrating Solomon's unique and superior endowment.
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