Mahath מַ֫חַת
Levite who helped purify the temple under Hezekiah
Biography
Mahath is mentioned in 2 Chronicles as one of the Levites who participated in the purification of the temple during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah (2Ch.29.12). Hezekiah initiated a religious reform that included the cleansing and restoration of the temple, which had fallen into disrepair and neglect under the previous kings (2Ch.29.3-11). Mahath, along with other Levites from the clans of Kohath and Merari, was summoned by the king to assist in this important task (2Ch.29.12). The Levites played a crucial role in the temple's purification, as they were responsible for removing the unclean items, carrying them outside the city, and preparing the temple for proper worship (2Ch.29.15-19). Mahath's participation in this event highlights the significance of the Levites in maintaining the religious life of Judah and their dedication to restoring proper worship practices. No further details are provided about Mahath's personal life or his other responsibilities as a Levite. His inclusion in the biblical record emphasizes the importance of religious reform and the collective effort required to maintain the purity and sanctity of the temple.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book2 Chronicles 1 verse
- 2 Chronicles 29:12
"Then the Levites arose, Mahath, the son of Amasai, and Joel the son of Azariah, of the sons of the Kohathites; and of the sons of Merari, Kish the son of Abdi, and Azariah the son of Jehallelel; and of the Gershonites, Joah the son of Zimmah, and Eden the son of Joah;"
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Strong's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | מַ֫חַת | H4287G |
Mahath
(1Ch 6:25). He seems also to be the same as the person named in 2Ch 29:12 during Hezekiah's time, though it is probable there is some confusion in the narrative. He is there represented as taking part in the new covenant of Hezekiah and the cleansing of the Lord's house.
(2) One of the overseers of the temple under Conaniah and Shimei (2Ch 31:13); three passages of Scripture give the name, but it is difficult to individuate these because the genealogy identifies the two first named (1Ch 6:35; 2Ch 29:12), while the chronology seems to divide them--one in David's day, the other in Hezekiah's. It is not, however, impossible to identify the man of 2Ch 29:12 with him of 2Ch 31:13. Possibly the genealogy has been mistakenly repeated in 2Ch 29:12.
Henry Wallace
ma'-ha-vit (machawim, "villagers"): The description given to Eliel, one of David's warrior guard (1Ch 11:46), perhaps to distinguish him from the Eliel in the next verse. Massore