Nathan-melech
Nathan-melech in the Bible — the official over the chamber of the horses and chariots of the sun (2KI 23:11). Referenced in 1 scripture passage.
Name meaning: “the gift of the king, or of counsel”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 1 reference
- Known Names
- 1 name
Biography
Nathan-melech was a male official in ancient Israel known for his role as the overseer of the chamber of the horses and chariots dedicated to the sun. While his tribal affiliation is not recorded, his unique position indicates a significant administrative responsibility related to royal or religious functions. The Scriptures provide limited additional personal details about him.
Names & Titles
The name Nathan-melech means 'gift of king' or 'gift of Melek, Molech, Malk,' reflecting a possible connection to royal favor or a theophoric element involving a deity named Melek. This proper name highlights the cultural and religious context of his time but was not specifically given by God according to the biblical record.
Family
Scripture does not record family relationships for Nathan-melech beyond what is indicated by his official role. There are no explicit mentions of relatives or descendants associated with him in the biblical text.
Significance
Nathan-melech's importance lies in his administrative role overseeing the chamber of the horses and chariots of the sun, a position that suggests involvement in the management of royal or cultic assets during the reign of King Josiah. His mention in 2 Kings 23:11 situates him within the narrative of religious reforms under Josiah, providing a glimpse into the institutional structures that supported both royal authority and worship practices in Judah.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- נְתַן-מֶלֶךְ
- Transliteration
- natan-melekh
- Meaning
- gift of king or gift of Melek, Molech, Malk
- Greek
- Ναθαν βασιλέως
- Reference
- 2KI 23:11
- Strong's
- H5419
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nathan-melech in the Bible?
Nathan-melech was a male official in ancient Israel known for his role as the overseer of the chamber of the horses and chariots dedicated to the sun. While his tribal affiliation is not recorded, his unique position indicates a significant administrative responsibility related to royal or religious functions. The Scriptures provide limited additional personal details about him.
What does the name Nathan-melech mean?
The name Nathan-melech means “the gift of the king, or of counsel” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.