apparently from מָלַל; I have talked (i.e. loquacious); Mallothi, an Israelite; Mallothi.
Transliteration:Mallôwthîy
Pronunciation:mal-lo'-thee
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מַלּוֹתִי (Mallôwthîy), Strong's number `{{H4413}}`, is a proper noun, specifically the name of an individual. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root מָלַל (malal), Strong's number `{{H4448}}`, which primarily means "to speak," "to utter," or "to talk." The name Mallothi, therefore, carries the semantic implication of "I have talked" or "my talk." This suggests a characteristic of loquaciousness, eloquence, or perhaps a person known for their vocal contributions. As a proper name, its meaning points to a personal attribute or a divine declaration concerning the individual's nature or destiny, rooted in the act of speech.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Mallothi, `{{H4413}}`, appears exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles, identified as one of the sons of Heman, a prominent musician and seer appointed by King David for temple service.
* In [[1 Chronicles 25:4]], Mallothi is listed among Heman's fourteen sons, all of whom were "sons of Heman the king's seer in the words of God, to exalt the horn." This verse establishes his lineage and his family's dedicated role in the sacred music and prophecy of the tabernacle/temple.
* [[1 Chronicles 25:26]] further details his specific role within the twenty-four divisions of temple musicians. Here, Mallothi is assigned to the nineteenth lot, indicating his participation in the organized liturgical service. The context reveals a highly structured system of worship, where skilled musicians, including the sons of Heman, Asaph, and Jeduthun, served in shifts, playing instruments and singing praises to the Lord. Mallothi's inclusion in this esteemed group underscores his personal qualification and the importance of his family's contribution to Israel's worship life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root מָלַל (malal), `{{H4448}}`, from which Mallothi's name is derived. This root encompasses the act of speaking, uttering words, or conversing. Other related terms that highlight the concept of speech and utterance in a biblical context include:
* מִלָּה (millah), `{{H4406}}`, meaning "word," "speech," or "discourse." This noun directly relates to the output of the verb "to speak."
* דָּבָר (dabar), `{{H1697}}`, a very common term for "word," "matter," or "thing," often referring to divine speech or prophetic utterance.
* אָמַר (amar), `{{H559}}`, another fundamental verb meaning "to say" or "to speak."
The connection of Mallothi's name to "speaking" is significant, especially given his role as a temple musician. This suggests that his name may have reflected a particular vocal talent, a gift for proclamation, or perhaps a prophetic inclination, aligning with his father Heman's designation as a "seer in the words of God." The concept of "speaking" in this context extends beyond mere conversation to include vocal praise, prophetic declaration, and the articulation of divine truth through music.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Mallothi, `{{H4413}}`, lies primarily in the meaning of his name within the context of his sacred service. As one whose name means "I have talked" or "my talk," and who served as a temple musician, Mallothi embodies the dedication of one's very being and gifts to divine worship.
1. **Vocal Service and Praise:** His name may have been prophetic of his role, indicating a person gifted in vocal expression, whether through singing, leading chants, or perhaps even prophetic utterances within the musical context. It highlights the importance of the human voice in glorifying God.
2. **Divine Calling and Identity:** In ancient Israel, names often carried profound meaning, reflecting character, destiny, or a parent's hope. Mallothi's name, linked to speech, suggests a divinely ordained capacity for communication or expression, channeled into the service of the tabernacle/temple. It underscores the idea that God calls individuals with specific gifts to fulfill particular roles in His kingdom.
3. **Order and Dedication in Worship:** Mallothi's inclusion in the meticulously organized divisions of temple musicians in 1 Chronicles emphasizes the importance of orderly, dedicated, and skilled service in worship. His name, a personal attribute, becomes part of a larger, collective act of devotion, demonstrating that even individual characteristics are consecrated to God's glory. The "talk" of Mallothi, therefore, becomes a "talk" of praise, intercession, or prophetic declaration, offered up to the Lord.
### Summary
Mallothi, `{{H4413}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun, the name of a Levite temple musician in the lineage of Heman. Derived from the root מָלַל (malal), `{{H4448}}`, meaning "to speak" or "to talk," his name signifies "I have talked" or "my talk," suggesting a characteristic of eloquence or vocal gifting. He is mentioned twice in 1 Chronicles, [[1 Chronicles 25:4]] and [[1 Chronicles 25:26]], as one of Heman's sons assigned to the nineteenth division of musicians serving in the tabernacle/temple. His name's meaning, combined with his role, underscores the theological significance of dedicating one's vocal abilities and very being to the praise and service of God, exemplifying the structured and devoted nature of worship in ancient Israel.
TRV