### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Machlîy**, represented by `{{H4249}}`, is derived from a word meaning **sick**. It appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses**. In scripture, it is used as the proper name for two Israelites, establishing key family lines within the tribe of Levi.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary use of `{{H4249}}` is to establish genealogical records for the Levites. **Mahli** is consistently identified as a **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Merari** `{{H4847}}` and a grandson of **Levi** `{{H3878}}`, as recorded in the families of Levi according to their **generations** `{{H8435}}` [[Exodus 6:19]]. This lineage is restated multiple times, emphasizing his place within the Levitical structure ([[Numbers 3:20]], [[1 Chronicles 6:19]], [[1 Chronicles 6:47]]). His own sons were **Eleazar** `{{H499}}` and **Kish** `{{H7027}}` [[1 Chronicles 23:21]], and the line of **Mahli** is later noted when a descendant, a **man** `{{H376}}` of **understanding** `{{H7922}}`, is brought to Ezra [[Ezra 8:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help trace the lineage of **Machlîy** and his family:
* `{{H4847}}` **Merârîy** (bitter): The father of **Mahli**, and one of the sons of **Levi** `{{H3878}}`. The Merarites form one of the main divisions of the Levites [[Genesis 46:11]].
* `{{H4187}}` **Mûwshîy** (sensitive): The brother of **Mahli**. They are consistently listed together as the sons of **Merari** `{{H4847}}` ([[Numbers 3:20]], [[Exodus 6:19]]).
* `{{H3878}}` **Lêvîy** (attached): The ancestor of **Mahli** and the progenitor of the entire Levitical tribe, one of the sons of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:1]].
* `{{H499}}` **ʼElʻâzâr** (God (is) helper): A son of **Mahli**. It is specifically noted that he had no **sons** `{{H1121}}` [[1 Chronicles 24:28]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4249}}` is found in its role within Israel's historical and religious framework.
* **Levitical Genealogy:** The name **Mahli** is central to tracing the lineage of the Merarites, one of the three main branches of the **Levites** `{{H3881}}`. These genealogies were vital for establishing rights and responsibilities within Israel's religious life [[Numbers 3:20]].
* **Family and Clan Structure:** Scripture repeatedly identifies **Mahli** alongside his brother **Mushi** `{{H4187}}` as founders of the "families of the **Levites**" [[1 Chronicles 6:19]]. This highlights the importance of the family **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **fathers** `{{H1}}` as the foundational unit for social and religious organization in Israel [[1 Chronicles 24:30]].
* **Historical Continuity:** The lineage of **Mahli** is shown to have lasting significance. Centuries after his time, a descendant is identified as "a **man** `{{H376}}` of **understanding** `{{H7922}}`" who plays a role in the return from exile, demonstrating the preservation and importance of these family lines for the people of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` [[Ezra 8:18]].
### Summary
In summary, **Machlîy** `{{H4249}}` is a name that functions as a crucial genealogical marker within the Old Testament. While its base definition is "sick," its biblical significance lies entirely in its use to identify a key Levite, the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Merari** `{{H4847}}`. The records of his descendants are essential for understanding the organization of the Levitical families and affirm the biblical emphasis on lineage for maintaining social order and religious duties throughout Israel's history.
TRV