### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mᵉlaṭyâh**, represented by `{{H4424}}`, means **(whom) Jah has delivered**. This name appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, identifying a specific individual who participated in a significant moment of Israel's history. He is explicitly named as a Gibeonite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of Mᵉlaṭyâh `{{H4424}}` is in the book of Nehemiah, during the account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall. In this passage, he is listed as one of the workers who **repaired** `{{H2388}}` a section of the wall. He worked alongside Jadon `{{H3036}}` the Meronothite `{{H4824}}`. Their work is specified as being done on behalf of "the men `{{H582}}` of Gibeon `{{H1391}}` and of Mizpah `{{H4709}}`," contributing to the portion of the wall "unto the throne `{{H3678}}` of the governor `{{H6346}}` on this side `{{H5676}}` the river `{{H5104}}`" [[Nehemiah 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Melatiah's work is illuminated by several related words:
* `{{H1393}}` **Gibʻônîy** (Gibeonite): This identifies Melatiah's lineage. The Gibeonites were not originally of the children of Israel, but were a remnant of the Amorites who had a covenant with Israel [[2 Samuel 21:2]]. His participation shows a broader community involvement in the restoration of Jerusalem.
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (repaired): This verb, meaning to be strong, fortify, or help, describes Melatiah's action. The same word is used when David "encouraged himself in the LORD his God" [[1 Samuel 30:6]] and when God commands his people to "Be strong and of a good courage" [[Deuteronomy 31:6]].
* `{{H1391}}` **Gibʻôwn** (Gibeon): This was Melatiah's hometown, described as a "great city" [[Joshua 10:2]]. It was also a historically significant place of worship where Solomon offered sacrifices to God [[1 Kings 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
Despite being mentioned only once, the story of Mᵉlaṭyâh carries theological weight.
* **A Name as Testimony:** His name, meaning "(whom) Jah has delivered," is a personal declaration of faith. It suggests that his very identity was rooted in the deliverance of God, a fitting theme for someone involved in the restoration of God's holy city.
* **Unified Restoration:** As a **Gibeonite** `{{H1393}}`, a non-Israelite by blood [[2 Samuel 21:2]], his willing participation in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem demonstrates a unified purpose among those loyal to God, regardless of their origin.
* **Faith in Action:** Melatiah's act of repairing `{{H2388}}` the wall is a physical manifestation of the spiritual principle to "be strong" and "encourage" oneself in the Lord, as the same Hebrew verb is used in those contexts ([[Joshua 1:9]], [[1 Samuel 30:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, Mᵉlaṭyâh `{{H4424}}` is a figure whose significance is captured in a single verse. Though his role was specific and his mention brief, his name, "Jah has delivered," his action of "repairing" the wall, and his identity as a Gibeonite all contribute to the larger biblical narrative. He serves as an example of how individuals from diverse backgrounds can play a vital part in accomplishing God's restorative work.
TRV