Etymology and Meaning:
Mola'dah, meaning "birth" or "race" in Hebrew, is a town mentioned in the Old Testament. Its name reflects themes of origin and lineage, which are significant in the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:
Mola'dah is referenced in several passages within the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial allotments and the return from exile. It is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. Joshua 15:26 lists Mola'dah among the cities in the southern part of the territory of Judah, which was later allotted to Simeon: "Amam, Shema, Moladah."

In 1 Chronicles 4:28, Mola'dah is again mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Simeon: "They lived in Beersheba, Moladah, Hazar-shual." This indicates its continued significance as a dwelling place for the Simeonites.

The post-exilic returnees also settled in Mola'dah, as recorded in Nehemiah 11:26: "and in Jeshua, Moladah, Beth-pelet." This highlights the restoration of the community and the re-establishment of ancestral lands following the Babylonian exile.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Mola'dah was located in the Negev region, south of Hebron, an area characterized by its arid climate and desert landscape. The town's inclusion in the tribal allotments of Simeon, which was within the larger territory of Judah, underscores the fluidity and complexity of tribal boundaries in ancient Israel.

The Negev was a strategic area for trade and defense, and towns like Mola'dah played a role in the broader socio-political landscape of the region. Its mention alongside other significant towns such as Beersheba suggests its importance in the network of settlements that supported the agricultural and pastoral activities of the tribes.

Archaeological Insights:
While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Mola'dah is limited, the general region has yielded findings that illuminate the lifestyle and culture of its inhabitants during the biblical period. Excavations in the Negev have uncovered remains of ancient settlements, fortifications, and agricultural installations, providing a glimpse into the life of those who lived in and around Mola'dah.

Theological Significance:
Mola'dah's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the themes of inheritance, restoration, and continuity of God's promises to the tribes of Israel. The town's mention in the context of both the initial settlement and the return from exile reflects the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people, as well as the importance of land and place in the fulfillment of divine promises.

The references to Mola'dah in the genealogical and territorial records serve as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in preserving the identity and heritage of His people, even through periods of displacement and return.Mola'dah (4 Occurrences)

Joshua 15:26
Amam, and Shema, and Moladah;
(See RSV)

Joshua 19:2
And they had for their inheritance Beer-sheba with Sheba, and Moladah;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 4:28
And they dwelt at Beer-sheba, and Moladah, and Hazar-shual;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 11:26
and in Jeshua, and in Moladah, and Beth-pelet;
(See RSV)

Mola'dah (4 Occurrences)
Mola'dah. Moladah, Mola'dah. Mold . Multi-Version Concordance Mola'dah (4
Occurrences). Joshua 15:26 Amam, and Shema, and Moladah; (See RSV). ...
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Moladah (4 Occurrences)

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Mold (1 Occurrence)

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