Who was Hammoleketh?

Hammoleketh (Hebrew: הַמֹּלֶכֶת, Hammōleḵeṯ) appears briefly in the genealogical records of the tribe of Manasseh in 1 Chronicles 7:18. Her name means “the queen” or “she who reigns”, derived from the Hebrew root mlk, which means “to reign” or “to be king.” She is mentioned as the sister of Gilead and the mother of Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

While she is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, her inclusion in the genealogy of the tribes of Israel suggests a role of significance in the family line of Manasseh, particularly the western half-tribe that settled in Canaan.

Biblical Reference

• 1 Chronicles 7:18 – “His sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer and Mahlah.”

Cross-References

• Joshua 17:2 – This verse lists Abiezer as a clan within the tribe of Manasseh.

• Judges 6:11 – Gideon, the deliverer of Israel, is called “the son of Joash the Abiezrite,” tracing his lineage to Abiezer, Hammoleketh’s son.

Hammoleketh in the Bible

Hammoleketh is listed in a genealogical context, a section of Scripture often overlooked but rich in theological and historical insights. She is the sister of Gilead, a descendant of Manasseh, and she bore three sons: Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah. The naming of a woman as the mother in a tribal genealogy is notable, as it points to her importance in the family line.

Although her story is not expanded upon with narrative detail, we learn from other passages that her son Abiezer became the ancestor of the Abiezrites, one of the clans of Manasseh. From this clan came Gideon, one of the judges of Israel who delivered God‘s people from the oppression of Midian (Judges 6–8). This links Hammoleketh indirectly to God’s redemptive work through Gideon.

Theological Significance

While Hammoleketh herself does not appear to have played a public or prophetic role in Israel‘s history, her significance lies in God’s sovereign choice to work through family lines, including often-overlooked women, to fulfill His redemptive purposes. Her lineage connects to the broader work of God through the tribe of Manasseh and through Gideon, a deliverer raised up to rescue Israel.

Her name, “the queen,” could symbolically suggest honor or authority. In a patriarchal society, the inclusion of her name may point to her recognized position and influence within the tribe. In this way, Hammoleketh illustrates how God values every individual in His covenant people, regardless of how prominent their role may seem to human eyes.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Importance of Genealogy in God’s Covenant

Genealogies in the Bible are not mere historical records—they serve to trace God’s covenant faithfulness through generations. The inclusion of Hammoleketh reminds us that every life matters in the unfolding plan of redemption.

2. Women in Redemptive History

Although women are not always front and center in biblical narratives, they are often quietly pivotal. Hammoleketh, like Ruth, Rahab, and Mary, played a role in bearing and raising those through whom God worked. The mention of her name is a testament to God’s inclusion of women in His plan.

3. Legacy Through Descendants

The mention of Abiezer ties Hammoleketh to Gideon, and thus to a legacy of deliverance and leadership. This points to the spiritual principle that the faithfulness and positioning of one generation can shape the calling and impact of the next.

4. God’s Use of the Ordinary

Hammoleketh’s brief appearance shows that even seemingly ordinary people—those who appear in only one verse—can be part of God’s extraordinary plan. Her role in the family tree was essential to the line that led to a judge of Israel.

How Hammoleketh Points to Jesus

Though far removed from the direct lineage of Christ, Hammoleketh belongs to the wider story of Israel—a people through whom the Messiah would come. The tribal genealogies, including that of Manasseh, represent God’s commitment to a covenantal people, out of whom Jesus would be born.

Gideon, her descendant, was a deliverer and judge—a shadow of the ultimate Deliverer, Jesus Christ. Gideon’s victory over Midian points forward to Christ’s victory over sin and death. Thus, Hammoleketh’s place in this line contributes to the larger story of redemption that culminates in Jesus.

What It Means for Christians Today

Hammoleketh’s story encourages believers that every role in the kingdom of God matters, even those behind the scenes. Whether we are in the spotlight or not, our faithfulness and legacy can have ripple effects in God‘s plan. It also reminds us that God sees and honors those who serve in unseen ways, and that spiritual influence often begins in the home, through raising up the next generation in faith.

Reflection Questions

1. How does the inclusion of someone like Hammoleketh in Scripture challenge the way we value lesser-known individuals in the Bible—and in the church?

2. What legacy of faith are you building for the next generation?

3. How can you trust God to use your life for His purposes, even if your role seems hidden or small?

4. In what ways can genealogies and seemingly minor characters in the Bible deepen your understanding of God’s faithfulness?

5. How does Hammoleketh’s connection to Gideon encourage you about the potential impact of your spiritual investments?

Though her mention is brief, Hammoleketh’s presence in the biblical record is another reminder that God sees, honors, and uses those who are often overlooked. Her legacy through her children is a call to live with purpose and faithfulness, knowing that God is weaving every life into His redemptive story.