Who was Mahalah?
Mahalah (also spelled Mahlah in some translations) was a female descendant of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph. Her name in Hebrew, מַחְלָה (Machlah), means “disease” or “infirmity,” though in biblical usage, names often carried deeper familial or historical significance rather than solely negative connotations. Mahalah appears in the genealogical record of the tribe of Manasseh in 1 Chronicles 7:18, and she is associated with a family line that had significant impact in the inheritance narratives of Israel.
Mahalah is also identified in Numbers 26:33, Numbers 27:1, Numbers 36:1-11, and Joshua 17:3-6 as one of the daughters of Zelophehad, a man from the tribe of Manasseh who had no sons. These daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah—boldly approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to claim their father’s inheritance so that his name would not disappear from his clan. Their plea led to a significant ruling in Israelite law about the inheritance rights of women.
Though there may be more than one woman named Mahalah/Mahlah in Scripture, the appearance in 1 Chronicles 7 is likely connected with the same family line, reinforcing the importance of her role in the continuity of Israel’s tribal identity and inheritance.
Biblical References
- 1 Chronicles 7:18 – “His sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer and Mahlah.”
- Numbers 26:33 – “Zelophehad son of Hepher had no sons; he had only daughters, whose names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah and Tirzah.”
- Numbers 27:1-11 – The daughters of Zelophehad request an inheritance.
- Numbers 36:1-12 – Law concerning inheritance within tribes.
- Joshua 17:3-6 – Their inheritance is granted in the land of Canaan.
Cross-References
- Genesis 48:5-6 – Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are adopted by Jacob and made patriarchs of their own tribes.
- Deuteronomy 21:15-17 – The law concerning inheritance rights of sons.
- Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither… male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
What Happened in the Bible?
Mahalah is most known as one of the daughters of Zelophehad, a man of the tribe of Manasseh who died in the wilderness without leaving a male heir. In a bold and faithful move, these women stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of Israel and asked for the right to inherit their father’s property (Numbers 27:1-4). This request was unprecedented in a patriarchal society where inheritance typically passed through male descendants.
God affirmed their request, saying, “What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives” (Numbers 27:7). The Lord then used their case to establish a broader legal precedent for other women in Israel, showing His concern for justice and familial continuity.
In Numbers 36, further clarification was given: the daughters were to marry within their tribe so that the inheritance would not transfer to other tribes. This ruling balanced both justice for the daughters and preservation of tribal identity.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
Mahalah’s story is a reminder that God hears and honors those who seek justice according to His promises. Though she lived in a time and culture that highly favored male heirs, Mahalah’s faith and courage, along with her sisters’, became a testimony to the Lord’s fairness and provision.
For Christians today, her example affirms that God values both men and women equally in His redemptive plan. Her story is not about rebellion but about respectful petition, showing that God is approachable and attentive when His people seek Him sincerely.
Her case also points to the importance of inheritance in the biblical narrative, which for New Testament believers is fulfilled spiritually in Christ. We are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17), not because of earthly status or gender but through faith.
How Mahalah’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Mahalah’s story contributes to the unfolding drama of redemption. The daughters of Zelophehad safeguarded their father’s name and inheritance, just as Christ came to secure the inheritance of all who belong to the Father. In the gospel, we are not excluded based on human criteria—Jew or Gentile, male or female—but are all welcomed into God’s family through faith (Galatians 3:28).
Mahalah’s appeal prefigures the gospel’s offer of inclusion and grace. Just as she and her sisters received an inheritance through divine intervention, so believers receive the riches of salvation not by merit, but by God’s will and provision through Christ.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Inheritance and Identity
The story emphasizes the theme of inheritance, crucial throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, land inheritance signified belonging and covenantal promise. In the New Testament, inheritance is a spiritual reality through Christ (Ephesians 1:11).
2. God’s Justice and Compassion
God’s willingness to hear the case of Zelophehad’s daughters reflects His character as a just and merciful King who defends the rights of the vulnerable.
3. The Dignity of Women in God’s Plan
Mahalah’s presence in Scripture highlights the value and role of women in God’s covenant community. God does not overlook the faithful, regardless of societal norms.
4. Courage in Faith
Mahalah and her sisters displayed boldness not in opposition to God’s law but in pursuit of its fullest application. Their reverent courage stands as a model for believers who appeal to God‘s righteousness.
Reflection Questions
- What does Mahalah’s story teach you about God’s justice and willingness to hear our petitions?
- How does her example challenge modern assumptions about the role of women in the story of redemption?
- In what ways are you claiming your spiritual inheritance in Christ with faith and courage?
- How does Mahalah’s story encourage you to seek fairness and justice in a godly way?
- What does it mean for you to be an heir of God and co-heir with Christ today?
Mahalah’s legacy is not simply one of legal reform but of faith, identity, and the assurance that no one is forgotten in God’s redemptive plan.