Mahalalel

Technical Profile

Name Meaning: From Hebrew Mahălalʾēl, often understood as “praise of God” or “the praised one of God,” reflecting a theophoric name element (El).
Period/Era: Primeval History (antediluvian genealogy)
Main References: Genesis 5:12–17; 1 Chronicles 1:2
Key Connections: Son of Kenan; father of Jared; ancestor within the Adamic line traced through Seth.

Who was Mahalalel?

Mahalalel is listed as an early patriarch in the genealogical record from Adam through Seth.
He appears in the “book of the generations of Adam” as part of the pre-flood lineage.
Genesis presents him primarily through his place in the chain of descent and lifespan summary.

Key Events & Achievements

Event 1: Became the father of Jared at age 65 (Genesis 5:15).
Event 2: Fathered other sons and daughters during his life (Genesis 5:16).
Event 3: Died after living 895 years, as recorded in the genealogy (Genesis 5:17).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Mahalalel’s legacy is his preserved place in the genealogical record that links generations in the primeval history.

Key Verse

"When Mahalalel had lived 65 years, he fathered Jared." — Genesis 5:15, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. According to the genealogy, how old was Mahalalel when he became the father of Jared?

2. Which relationship is correctly described for Mahalalel?