Melech is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. He is identified as one of the sons of Micah, a descendant of Saul, the first king of Israel. The name "Melech" itself means "king" in Hebrew, which is fitting given his royal lineage.

Biblical Reference:

Melech is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 8:35, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Saul. The verse states: "The sons of Micah: Pithon, Melech, Tarea, and Ahaz." . This passage situates Melech within the broader context of the Benjamite lineage, emphasizing the continuity of Saul's family line.

Genealogical Context:

Melech's father, Micah, is a lesser-known figure in the Bible, but his inclusion in the genealogies underscores the importance of maintaining records of Israel's tribal and familial lines. The tribe of Benjamin, to which Melech belongs, holds significant historical and theological importance. It is one of the twelve tribes of Israel and is known for producing notable figures, including King Saul and the Apostle Paul.

Historical and Theological Significance:

While Melech himself does not play a prominent role in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogies serves several purposes. First, it highlights the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping, which was crucial for maintaining tribal identities and inheritance rights. Second, it underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel, ensuring that each tribe's lineage is preserved and documented.

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles, including the mention of Melech, also serve to connect the post-exilic community of Israel with their ancestral past. By tracing their lineage back to significant figures like Saul, the chronicler reinforces the continuity of God's covenant with His people, despite the disruptions caused by exile and foreign domination.

Cultural and Linguistic Notes:

The name "Melech" is derived from the Hebrew root "mlk," which means "to reign" or "to be king." This root is also found in other biblical names and titles, such as "Melchizedek" (king of righteousness) and "Moloch" (a Canaanite deity). The use of such a name for a descendant of Saul may reflect the royal aspirations or heritage associated with his family line.

In summary, Melech, the son of Micah, is a minor yet significant figure within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. His inclusion in the biblical text serves to affirm the continuity of Israel's tribal heritage and the fulfillment of divine promises throughout the generations.1 Chronicles 8:35
And the sons of Micah were, Pithon, and Melech, and Tarea, and Ahaz.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 9:41
And the sons of Micah were, Pithon, and Melech, and Tahrea, and Ahaz.
Nave's Topical Index

The Prophet Joel.
... likewise speaks of one day only: "Thou son of man ... In Micah 2:4, when the captivity
was impending, the ... it was held by Kimchi, Abenezra, SB Melech, who explain it ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet joel.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... out to the number of six hundred, carried off by the way the ephod of Micah and
the ... They there set up for themselves the ephod: and Jonathan, the son of Gershom ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
... When, therefore, thou readest them, be persuaded that thou hearest the Father, and
the Son, and the Holy Ghost, all of them jointly and severally speaking to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm

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