Rechab רֵכָב
Father of Malchijah, who repaired the Dung Gate
Who is Rechab in the Bible?
Rechab was the father of Malchijah, who played a role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah's leadership. He is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:14, where his son Malchijah is credited with repairing the Dung Gate during the restoration of Jerusalem's defenses in the fifth century BC. The Dung Gate, likely located on the southern side of the city, was used for removing refuse from the city. Though Rechab himself is not extensively featured in Scripture, his inclusion in the account of the wall's reconstruction demonstrates how families contributed collectively to the restoration of Jerusalem's security and infrastructure after the exile.
Biography
Rechab is mentioned in the book of Nehemiah as the father of Malchijah, one of the people who helped repair the walls of Jerusalem (Neh.3.14). During the time of Nehemiah, the walls of Jerusalem were in disrepair, leaving the city vulnerable to attack. Nehemiah, who was serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, received permission to return to Jerusalem and oversee the rebuilding of the walls (Neh.2.1-8). Various individuals and families were assigned to repair specific sections of the wall. Malchijah, son of Rechab, was responsible for repairing the Dung Gate, which was likely located on the southern side of the city and used for removing refuse (Neh.3.14). The mention of Rechab in this context highlights the participation of families in the restoration of Jerusalem's defenses and the importance of each person's contribution to the overall project.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentNehemiah 1 verse
- Nehemiah 3:14
"The Dung Gate was repaired by Malchijah son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem. He rebuilt it and installed its doors, bolts, and bars."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | רֵכָב |