Makheloth is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers, as one of the encampments of the Israelites during their wilderness journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The name "Makheloth" is derived from the Hebrew word "מַקְהֵלוֹת" (maqheloth), which means "assemblies" or "gatherings."

Biblical Reference:

Makheloth is referenced in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings in the Book of Numbers. The specific mention is found in Numbers 33, which provides a detailed itinerary of the stages of the Israelites' journey:

· Numbers 33:25-26 : "They set out from Haradah and camped at Makheloth. They set out from Makheloth and camped at Tahath."

This passage is part of a larger section that lists the various places where the Israelites camped during their 40-year journey through the desert. The list serves as a historical record of their travels and God's guidance and provision throughout their journey.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The mention of Makheloth, like many other locations in the wilderness itinerary, underscores the transient and nomadic nature of the Israelites' existence during this period. Each encampment represents a stage in their journey, marked by reliance on God's direction and provision. The journey from Egypt to Canaan was not just a physical relocation but also a spiritual pilgrimage, where the Israelites were being shaped and prepared to become a covenant people in the Promised Land.

Theologically, the wilderness journey, including the stop at Makheloth, is often seen as a time of testing and refinement for the Israelites. It was during these years that they learned to depend on God for their daily needs, as exemplified by the provision of manna and water, and to trust in His promises despite the challenges they faced.

Geographical Considerations:

The exact location of Makheloth is not known today, as is the case with many of the sites mentioned in the wilderness itinerary. The lack of precise geographical identification does not diminish the significance of these locations in the biblical narrative. Instead, it highlights the broader theme of faith and obedience in the face of uncertainty and the importance of following God's leading, even when the path is not clear.

Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of "assemblies" or "gatherings" could imply a place where the community came together for worship, decision-making, or communal activities. While the specific activities at Makheloth are not detailed in the biblical text, the name itself suggests a place of gathering, which would have been an essential aspect of maintaining social and religious cohesion among the Israelites during their journey.

Makheloth, as part of the wilderness journey, serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in guiding His people through difficult and uncertain times, and the importance of community and obedience in the life of faith.Makhe'loth (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 33:25
And they journeyed from Haradah, and pitched in Makheloth.
(See RSV)

Numbers 33:26
And they journeyed from Makheloth, and pitched in Tahath.
(See RSV)

Makhe'loth (2 Occurrences)
Makhe'loth. Makheloth, Makhe'loth. Maki . Multi-Version Concordance
Makhe'loth (2 Occurrences). Numbers 33:25 And they journeyed ...
/m/makhe'loth.htm - 6k

Makheloth (2 Occurrences)

/m/makheloth.htm - 7k

Maki (1 Occurrence)

/m/maki.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus