Persons of the Bible: Letter M

The letter M brings together a remarkable tapestry of people, stretching from the earliest genealogies in Genesis to the ministries of Jesus and the early Church. Here we meet Moses, the prophet through whom God delivered Israel and revealed His law; Melchizedek, the mysterious priest-king who foreshadows Christ; Michael, the archangel who contends for God’s people; Mary, the mother of Jesus; and Mark, whose Gospel proclaims the Servant-King. Alongside these well-known figures are the faithful priests, musicians, warriors, and quiet servants whose names appear briefly but meaningfully in Scripture. Each one reminds us that God sees every person, works through every generation, and weaves every life—great or small—into His unfolding plan of salvation.

Maacah

Maacah appears as the name of several individuals, including wives, mothers, and clan leaders in Israel’s early history.
Scripture: 1 Kings 2:39; 1 Chronicles 7:16

— Maachah (variant spelling)
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 3:2

Maadai

Maadai was a descendant of Benjamin, listed among the returned exiles.
Scripture: Ezra 10:34

Maadiah

Maadiah was a priest listed among those who returned with Zerubbabel.
Scripture: Nehemiah 12:5

Maai

Maai was one of the singers appointed to praise during King Hezekiah’s reforms.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 29:14

Maarai

Maarai was one of David’s mighty men, from the tribe of Judah.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 23:35

Maaseiah

Maaseiah appears frequently as the name of priests, Levites, and civil officials in Judah.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:23; 2 Chronicles 23:1

Maath

Maath appears in Luke's genealogy of Jesus.
Scripture: Luke 3:26

Maaz

Maaz was a descendant of Judah, listed among Caleb's sons.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 2:36

Maccabeus (Apocrypha)

Maccabeus refers to Judas Maccabeus, a key figure in the Apocrypha, known for leading Israel in resistance against oppression.
Scripture: 1 Maccabees (Apocrypha)

Machbannai

Machbannai was one of David’s mighty warriors.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 12:13

Machir

Machir, son of Manasseh, became the father of the Machirites and played a role in early tribal leadership.
Scripture: Numbers 26:29; Judges 5:14

— Machirite (designation)
Scripture: Numbers 26:29

Magbish

Magbish is listed among the families that returned from exile.
Scripture: Ezra 2:30

Magdala (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, included here because of personal-form association (e.g., Mary Magdalene’s designation).
Scripture: Matthew 15:39 (contextual)

Magdalene (personal designation)

A term used to identify Mary Magdalene by her place of origin and included here because it functions as a personal designation.
Scripture: Luke 8:2; John 20:1

Magi

The Magi were wise men from the east who visited the young Jesus, bringing gifts that honored His identity as King.
Scripture: Matthew 2:1–12

Magog (personal designation)

Listed among the descendants of Japheth and later used in prophetic contexts. Included here for the personal genealogical reference.
Scripture: Genesis 10:2; Ezekiel 38:2

Magpiash

Magpiash was one of the leaders who sealed the covenant in Nehemiah’s time.
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:20

Mahalaleel (also Mahalalel)

Mahalaleel, a descendant of Seth, appears in the genealogy that leads from Adam to Noah and ultimately connects to Jesus through Luke’s genealogy.
Scripture: Genesis 5:12–17; 1 Chronicles 1:2; Luke 3:37

— Mahalalel (variant spelling)
Scripture: Genesis 5:12

Mahalath

Mahalath appears as both a woman’s name and a musical designation connected to Davidic psalms.
Scripture: Genesis 28:9; Psalm 53 (title)

Mahalath-leannoth (musical/personal designation)

A musical or liturgical designation, included here when used in the personal form.
Scripture: Psalm 88 (title)

Mahali

Mahali was a descendant of Merari among the Levites.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 6:19

Mahli

Mahli was a Levite, son of Merari, and ancestor of the Mahlites.
Scripture: Exodus 6:19; 1 Chronicles 6:47

— Mahlites (group designation)
Scripture: Numbers 3:20

Mahlah

Mahlah was one of the daughters of Zelophehad who faithfully appealed for inheritance rights, demonstrating trust in God’s justice and the value He places on righteousness and fairness.
Scripture: Numbers 27:1; Joshua 17:3

Mahlon

Mahlon was Ruth's husband before he died in Moab. His story forms part of the lineage through which God brought David—and ultimately Jesus—into the world.
Scripture: Ruth 1:2–5; Ruth 4:9–10

Mahol

Mahol was the father of several noted wise men in Solomon’s era.
Scripture: 1 Kings 4:31

Mahzioth

Mahzioth was a leader among the temple musicians listed in 1 Chronicles.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 15:18

Makkiel

Makkiel was a descendant of Manasseh, whose son was Gilead, making him part of the ancestral lines of Israel’s trans-Jordan tribes.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 7:14

Makir (variant of Machir)

A variant spelling related to the family of Machir, son of Manasseh.

Malachi

Malachi was the final prophet in the Old Testament, delivering God’s message to a spiritually drifting people. Through rebukes, invitations, and promises, Malachi called Israel back to covenant faithfulness and foretold the coming of the Messiah’s forerunner. His book bridges the silence between the Testaments and prepares hearts for Jesus.
Scripture: Malachi 1–4; Matthew 11:10

Malchiah (also Malchijah)

Malchiah was the name of several priests and officials who served during Jerusalem’s restoration.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:14; Nehemiah 3:31

— Malchijah (variant spelling)
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:31

Malchi-shua

Malchi-shua was a son of King Saul who died with his father in battle.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 31:2

Malchiel

Malchiel was the son of Beriah and ancestor of the Malchielites in the tribe of Asher.
Scripture: Genesis 46:17; Numbers 26:44

— Malchielites (group designation)
Scripture: Numbers 26:44

Malchus

Malchus was the servant of the high priest whose ear Peter cut off during Jesus’ arrest; Jesus healed him, displaying compassion even toward those who came to seize Him.
Scripture: John 18:10; Luke 22:51

Mallothi

Mallothi was a Levitical musician listed among Heman’s sons.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 25:4

Malluch

Malluch appears multiple times as the name of a Levite or priest involved in temple service or covenant restoration.
Scripture: Ezra 10:29; Nehemiah 10:4; Nehemiah 12:2

Manaen

Manaen was a prophet or teacher in the Church at Antioch, raised with Herod Antipas, but later serving Christ faithfully—showing the power of God’s calling across very different worlds.
Scripture: Acts 13:1

Manahethite

A group name used for individuals connected to Manahath.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 2:52

Manasseh

Manasseh was the firstborn son of Joseph and became the father of one of Israel’s major tribes. Through his line, God fulfilled part of Jacob’s prophetic blessing, shaping the identity of the northern tribes. Manasseh’s heritage is woven through the settlement of Canaan, prophetic rebukes, and later restoration.
Scripture: Genesis 41:50–52; Joshua 17; Numbers 26:28–34

— Manassite / Manassites (group designation)
Used to describe individuals belonging to the tribe of Manasseh.
Scripture: Joshua 17:1

Manasseh (King of Judah)

Manasseh, son of Hezekiah, ruled Judah for 55 years. Though known for deep sin and idolatry, he later humbled himself before God and sought restoration. His story shows both the seriousness of rebellion and the astonishing grace of God toward the repentant.
Scripture: 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33:1–20

Mara

Mara is the name Naomi asked to be called after a deep personal loss, expressing her grief before God.
Scripture: Ruth 1:20

Maralah

Maralah appears in the boundary descriptions of Zebulun. Included here where the personal form overlaps.
Scripture: Joshua 19:11

Maranatha (personal designation)

A term used by early Christians meaning “Our Lord, come.” Included here where applied as a personal or communal designation.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:22

Marcellus (Apocrypha)

A personal name found in later Apocryphal traditions.
Scripture: Apocrypha (variant tradition)

Marcus (Latin variant of Mark)

A variant form of Mark’s name.
Scripture: Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24

Mardochaios (Apocrypha form of Mordecai)

A Greek variant of the name Mordecai used in the Book of Esther in the Septuagint.
Scripture: Additions to Esther (Apocrypha)

Mareesh (variant)

A genealogical name preserved in variant textual traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mariadas (Apocrypha)

A personal name from certain Greek Apocryphal lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mariam (Greek form of Miriam/Mary)

A common name in the New Testament period, used interchangeably with Mary.
Scripture: Luke 2:19 (variant reading contexts)

Mariamme (Apocrypha)

A variant personal name preserved in certain Greek sources.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Marimoth (variant of Meremoth)

A personal name preserved in genealogical variants.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Marina (late variant)

A later Greek or Latinized form appearing in variant lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mark

Mark, also known as John Mark, was an early Christian disciple and the author of the Gospel of Mark. Though he initially faltered in ministry, he later became a trusted coworker to both Paul and Peter, demonstrating the power of restoration and maturity in Christ. His Gospel emphasizes the authority, compassion, and sacrificial mission of Jesus, presenting Christ as the Servant-King who came to redeem humanity. Mark’s life shows how God faithfully shapes imperfect people for His purposes.
Scripture: Acts 12:12; Acts 13:13; 2 Timothy 4:11; 1 Peter 5:13; Colossians 4:10

Maron

A minor figure referenced in Apocryphal or historical lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Maroth (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, including where personal usage occurs.
Scripture: Micah 1:12 (contextual)

Martha

Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus, is remembered for her service, hospitality, and her profound confession of Jesus as the Christ. Her relationship with Jesus reveals both His tenderness toward those burdened with care and His desire for hearts to find rest in Him.
Scripture: Luke 10:38–42; John 11:20–27; John 12:2

Martinus (later Christian variant)

A personal name in later Christian tradition.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mary

Mary, the mother of Jesus, is one of the most significant women in Scripture. Chosen by God to bear His Son, she displayed remarkable humility, obedience, and faith. Mary’s life reflects joy in God, her Savior; deep trust in suffering; and steadfast presence throughout Jesus’ ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, and the early Church. Her story demonstrates God’s grace working through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
Scripture: Luke 1:26–38; Luke 1:46–55; John 19:25–27; Acts 1:14

— Mary Magdalene (designation)
Mary Magdalene was delivered from demonic oppression, became a devoted follower of Jesus, stood near the cross, and was the first to witness the risen Christ.
Scripture: Luke 8:2; John 19:25; John 20:1–18

— Mary of Bethany
Sister of Martha and Lazarus, known for her devotion in sitting at Jesus' feet and anointing Him.
Scripture: Luke 10:39; John 12:1–3

— Mary (mother of James and Joses)
A faithful follower present at the crucifixion and resurrection events.
Scripture: Matthew 27:55–56

— Mary, wife of Clopas
A disciple present at the cross and associated with early resurrection testimony.
Scripture: John 19:25

— Mary of Rome
Greeted by Paul for her hard work in the Church.
Scripture: Romans 16:6

Maryeus (variant)

A Greek variant form connected to Mary.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mas

Mas was one of the descendants of Ishmael, appearing in the genealogies of early tribal families.
Scripture: Genesis 25:14

Mash

Mash was another son of Aram, included in the Table of Nations.
Scripture: Genesis 10:23; 1 Chronicles 1:17

Masham (variant)

A genealogical name preserved in variant Hebrew lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mashmannah

Mashmannah was one of David’s mighty warriors.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 12:10

Matred

Matred was listed in Esau's genealogy.
Scripture: Genesis 36:39

Matri

Matri was the forefather of the Matrites, a clan of Benjamin.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 10:21

— Matrites (group designation)
Scripture: 1 Samuel 10:21

Mattan

Mattan was the father of Shephatiah and appears during the events surrounding King Josiah.
Scripture: 2 Kings 11:18

Mattaniah

Mattaniah appears multiple times as a Levite, temple official, or leader involved in revival and covenant restoration.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 29:13; Nehemiah 11:17; Nehemiah 12:8

Mattatha

Mattatha is one of the ancestors listed in Luke's genealogy of Jesus.
Scripture: Luke 3:31

Mattathias

Mattathias was a priest and ancestor of Joseph in Luke’s genealogy; the name also appears in post-exilic priestly lines.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 9:31; Luke 3:25

— Mattithiah (variant)
Scripture: Ezra 10:43

Matthew

Matthew, also called Levi, was a tax collector whom Jesus called to be a disciple. He left everything to follow Christ and later wrote the Gospel of Matthew, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah and King. His Gospel emphasizes fulfillment of prophecy, the ethics of the Kingdom of Heaven, and Jesus’ authority. Matthew’s story demonstrates how Jesus transforms lives and calls people from every background into His redeeming work.
Scripture: Matthew 9:9–13; Luke 5:27–32; Matthew 10:2–4

Matthan

Matthan is listed in Jesus’ genealogy through Joseph in Matthew’s Gospel.
Scripture: Matthew 1:15

Mattithiah

Mattithiah was a Levite musician and temple servant who played important roles in worship and restoration.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 25:1–6; Nehemiah 12:8

Mazliah

Mazliah was a priest listed among those returning with Zerubbabel.
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:8

Meah

Primarily a location, including where personal designation appears.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:1 (contextual)

Medad

Medad was one of the two men who prophesied in the camp when the Spirit of God rested upon the seventy elders.
Scripture: Numbers 11:26–29

Median

A designation referring to individuals associated with the Media; it is used personally.
Scripture: 2 Kings 17:6 (contextual)

Mehetabel

Mehetabel appears in genealogical records, including the line of Esau’s descendants.
Scripture: Genesis 36:39

Mehujael

Mehujael was a descendant of Cain, listed in the genealogies of Genesis.
Scripture: Genesis 4:18

Mehuman

Mehuman was one of the seven eunuchs serving in the Persian court under King Ahasuerus.
Scripture: Esther 1:10

Melatiah

Melatiah the Gibeonite was one of the leaders who worked on rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:7

Melchi

Melchi appears in Luke's genealogy of Jesus.
Scripture: Luke 3:24

Melchior (Apocryphal)

A traditional name assigned in later Christian writings to one of the Magi; included for completeness.
Scripture: Tradition (Apocryphal)

Melchishua (variant of Malchi-shua)

A variant form referring to a son of Saul.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 14:49 (variant context)

Melchizedek

Melchizedek was King of Salem and priest of God Most High, who blessed Abraham and received tithes from him. He appears in Scripture as a mysterious, righteous figure representing a priesthood greater than the Levitical order. The New Testament uses Melchizedek to reveal Jesus as the eternal High Priest—holy, exalted, and appointed by God for the redemption of humanity.
Scripture: Genesis 14:18–20; Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 5–7

— Melchisedec (Greek/Septuagint variant)
Scripture: Hebrews 7 (variant form)

Meldishai (variant)

A genealogical or linguistic variant preserved in later textual witnesses.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Melea

Melea appears in the genealogy of Jesus as listed in Luke’s Gospel.
Scripture: Luke 3:31

Melech

Melech appears among the descendants of Micah.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 8:35

Meleim (variant)

A small genealogical name included in variant lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Meleon (variant)

A late Greek variant of Mahlon/Mahlon-related forms.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Melita (personal-designation)

Primarily an island designation connected to Paul’s shipwreck, included where used in personal form.
Scripture: Acts 28:1 (contextual)

Melziah (variant)

A later genealogical form preserved in variant manuscripts.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mem (variant)

A personal or symbolic name preserved in variant genealogical or linguistic traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Memer (variant)

A small genealogical name preserved in late manuscript traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Menahem

Menahem was a king of Israel known for his fierce and oppressive rule, including the violent suppression of opposition. His reign reflects the instability and moral decline of Israel during the final years before the Assyrian conquest.
Scripture: 2 Kings 15:14–22

Menan

Menan appears in the genealogy of Jesus according to Luke, carrying forward the ancestral line through which God fulfilled His promises in Christ.
Scripture: Luke 3:31

Mendab (variant)

A genealogical name appearing in variant lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Meni

Meni is mentioned in Isaiah as one of the false deities or fortune symbols Israel wrongly trusted. Included here because the text personifies the figure as an object of devotion.
Scripture: Isaiah 65:11

Meonothai

Meonothai was a descendant of Judah, noted as the father of Ophrah.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 4:14

Merab

Merab was the eldest daughter of King Saul, originally promised to David but later given to another. Her story appears in the complex transitions of royal politics during Saul’s reign.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 14:49; 1 Samuel 18:17–19

Meraioth

Meraioth was a priest and ancestor of several later high priests in Israel.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 6:6

Merari

Merari was the youngest son of Levi and the ancestor of the Merarites, who were entrusted with the heavy structural components of the tabernacle. Their work ensured the stability and integrity of God’s dwelling place among His people, demonstrating how essential faithful service is within the worshiping community.
Scripture: Exodus 6:19; Numbers 3:33–37; Numbers 4:29–33

— Merarites (group designation)
Scripture: Numbers 3:33

Merathaim (personal-designation)

Primarily symbolic language used by prophets, included here where personified.
Scripture: Jeremiah 50:21 (contextual)

Merchath

A small genealogical name noted in variant traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mered

Mered was a descendant of Judah who married a daughter of Pharaoh and appears in genealogical accounts with notable detail.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 4:17–18

Meremoth

Meremoth was a priest active in Jerusalem after the exile, assisting in rebuilding efforts and covenant renewals.
Scripture: Ezra 8:33; Nehemiah 3:4; Nehemiah 10:5

— Meremoth (variants)
Grouped variant spellings in later lists.

Meres

Meres was one of the seven princes of Persia and Media who advised King Ahasuerus.
Scripture: Esther 1:14

Merib-baal (also Mephibosheth)

Merib-baal is another name for Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan. He was shown extraordinary kindness by King David, who restored to him the land of Saul and welcomed him to dine at the King’s table—foreshadowing God’s grace toward the undeserving.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 8:34; 2 Samuel 9

— Mephibosheth (variant form)
Scripture: 2 Samuel 9

Meribah (personal-designation)

Primarily a location but included here where personified in prophetic texts.
Scripture: Psalm 81:7 (contextual)

Merodach (personal-designation)

In this context, Merodach refers to the Babylonian deity whose name appears in personal reference. Included due to personification.
Scripture: Isaiah 39:1 (contextual)

Merodach-baladan

Merodach-baladan was a king of Babylon who sent envoys to Hezekiah. His actions draw attention in the narrative about Hezekiah’s pride and the prophecy of future exile.
Scripture: Isaiah 39:1–8; 2 Kings 20:12–19

Meshach

Meshach was one of the three young men (with Shadrach and Abednego) who refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image. Their unwavering loyalty to God led them into the fiery furnace—yet God delivered them unharmed, revealing His sovereign power and faithfulness. Meshach’s courage stands as a powerful witness to trusting God in the face of earthly threats.
Scripture: Daniel 1:7; Daniel 3:12–30

Meshelemiah

Meshelemiah was a gatekeeper appointed to guard the temple in David’s time.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 9:21

Meshezabel

Meshezabel was the ancestor of Meshullam, one of Nehemiah’s fellow builders in Jerusalem.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:4

Meshillemith

Meshillemith was a Levite listed in the genealogical records preserved in the time of Josiah.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 9:12

Meshillemoth

Meshillemoth was a man of Ephraim whose sons participated in the war narratives of Chronicles.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 28:12

Meshobab

Meshobab was a descendant of Simeon listed among the chiefs of his tribe.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 4:37

Meshullam

Meshullam appears many times as the name of priests, Levites, and leaders during the rebuilding of Jerusalem. His recurring presence highlights faithful participation in worship, teaching, and covenant renewal.
Scripture: Nehemiah 3:4; Nehemiah 8:4; Ezra 10:15

— Meshullamoth (variant)
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 34:12

Mesobaite (personal designation)

Used as a descriptor for a person associated with a region; included for completeness.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 11:47

Metheg (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, included where personal designation appears in variant readings.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 8:1 (contextual)

Methusael

Methusael was a descendant of Cain listed in the earliest genealogies.
Scripture: Genesis 4:18

Methuselah

Methuselah, the longest-lived man recorded in Scripture, was part of the ancestral line from Adam to Noah. His life bridges generations, linking the righteousness of Enoch to the generation of the flood. Methuselah’s long years testify to God’s patience before judgment and His steady work across centuries.
Scripture: Genesis 5:21–27; 1 Chronicles 1:3

Meunim (personal designation)

A name used for a group or individual associated with Meunites.
Scripture: Ezra 2:50

Miamin (also Jamin; variant)

Miamin was a priest listed among those serving after the exile.
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:7

Mibhar

Mibhar was one of David’s mighty men.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 11:38

Mibsam

Mibsam was a son of Ishmael, listed in the genealogies of Abraham’s descendants.
Scripture: Genesis 25:13

Mibzar

Mibzar was one of the chiefs of Edom, descended from Esau.
Scripture: Genesis 36:40

Micha (variant of Micah)

Used for various individuals, including Levites, prophets, and clan leaders, depending on context.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 34:20

Michal

Michal, daughter of Saul and first wife of David, played a complex role in David’s early life. She loved David, protected him from Saul, and later struggled with bitterness during David’s kingship. Her story reveals both the tensions of royal life and the consequences of unresolved conflict.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 18:20–29; 1 Samuel 19:11–17; 2 Samuel 6:16–23

Michael

Michael is an archangel described as a chief prince and protector of God’s people. He appears in Scripture as a warrior who combats spiritual evil, contends for God’s purposes, and stands with the people of Israel. His presence highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and God’s care for His people through His heavenly host.
Scripture: Daniel 10:13; Daniel 12:1; Jude 9; Revelation 12:7

Michri

Michri was a Benjamite listed in genealogical records.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 9:8

Midian

Midian was a son of Abraham through Keturah and ancestor of the Midianites. His lineage later intersected with Moses’ life during his stay in Midian.
Scripture: Genesis 25:2; Exodus 2:15–22

Mijamin

Mijamin was a priest listed among the heads of divisions in the post-exilic community.
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:7; Nehemiah 12:5

Mikloth

Mikloth was an officer in Benjamin’s genealogies.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 9:37

Milalai

Milalai was one of the Levitical singers appointed for thanksgiving during Nehemiah’s dedication of Jerusalem’s wall.
Scripture: Nehemiah 12:36

Milcah

Milcah was the wife of Nahor (Abraham’s brother) and grandmother of Rebekah. Her family line plays an important role in God’s unfolding plan, connecting Abraham’s extended kin to the patriarchal story.
Scripture: Genesis 11:29; Genesis 22:20–23

Milcom (personal designation)

A personal designation associated with Ammonite worship, included here due to its personified reference.
Scripture: 1 Kings 11:5

Mileam (variant)

A genealogical name appearing in variant traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Miletus (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, included where used in personal-designation context.
Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:20 (contextual)

Milgah

A genealogical name from biblical variant lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Millo (personal designation)

Primarily a structure or district, included where personified in certain contexts.
Scripture: 2 Kings 12:20 (contextual)

Mimshai

Mimshai was one of the scribes involved in the reporting of matters to the Persian King.
Scripture: Ezra 4:8

Minjamin

Minjamin was listed among the priests who served after the exile.
Scripture: Nehemiah 10:7

Minni (personal-designation)

A poetically personified group name included here for completeness.
Scripture: Jeremiah 51:27

Minnith (personal-designation)

Primarily a place, but included due to personal designations in variant contexts.
Scripture: Judges 11:33 (contextual)

Minocho (variant)

A late genealogical name preserved in variant manuscripts.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Misael (variant of Mishael)

A variant spelling connected to the Hebrew name Mishael.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mishal (personal-designation; minor)

Primarily a place, included here only where personal-identification overlaps.
Scripture: Joshua 21:30 (contextual)

Misham

Misham was a descendant of Benjamin, recorded in genealogies.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 8:12

Mishael

Mishael was one of the companions of Daniel (known by the Babylonian name Meshach), who stood firm in faith under pressure.
Scripture: Daniel 1:6–7

Mishma

Mishma was one of the sons of Ishmael and became the ancestor of the Mishmaites.
Scripture: Genesis 25:14; 1 Chronicles 5:13

— Mishmaites (group designation)
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 5:13

Mishmannah (variant)

A name preserved in variant textual lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Mishraites

Mishraites were a clan descended from Caleb through Hur, appearing in genealogical records.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 2:53

Mispar

Mispar (also Mispereth) was a leader among the returning exiles.
Scripture: Ezra 2:2; Nehemiah 7:7

— Mispereth (variant form)
Scripture: Nehemiah 7:7

Misrephoth (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, included here due to occasional personified usage.
Scripture: Joshua 11:8 (contextual)

Mizzah

Mizzah was a chief among the descendants of Seir the Horite.
Scripture: Genesis 36:13

Mizpar

A minor genealogical name from post-exilic lists.
Scripture: Ezra 8:17

Mizraim

Mizraim is listed as a son of Ham and is associated with the earliest ancestors of Egypt. His name appears in genealogical records that trace the spread of nations after the flood, showing how the families of Noah filled the earth according to God’s plan.
Scripture: Genesis 10:6; 1 Chronicles 1:8

Mnason

Mnason was an early disciple from Cyprus who hosted Paul and his companions during their journey to Jerusalem. He is remembered as a faithful, long-standing believer who supported the apostles with hospitality.
Scripture: Acts 21:16

Moab (personal designation)

Moab was the son of Lot’s eldest daughter and ancestor of the Moabites. Because his lineage began from a deeply troubled family event, the biblical narrative uses Moab’s history to show both human brokenness and God’s later mercy—especially through Ruth the Moabitess.
Scripture: Genesis 19:37; Deuteronomy 2:9

Moadiah

Moadiah was one of the leaders listed among the families who returned from exile.
Scripture: Nehemiah 12:17

Molid

Molid appears in the genealogy of Judah through Caleb.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 2:29

Molidai (variant)

A genealogical variant preserved in later manuscript traditions.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Molech (personal-designation)

A personified title associated with Ammonite worship, included here because the text treats it as a personal figure.
Scripture: Leviticus 18:21; 1 Kings 11:7

Moladah (personal-designation)

Primarily a location; included where personal naming forms appear in variants.
Scripture: Joshua 15:26 (contextual)

Moladahite (personal-designation)

Designation referring to someone from Moladah; included for completeness.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Moloch (variant of Molech)

A Greek/Septuagint form of Molech.
Scripture: Acts 7:43

Mona (variant)

A small genealogical name preserved in later textual witnesses.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Moneen (variant)

A late form found in genealogical glosses.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Monemia (Apocrypha)

A personal name preserved in Apocryphal genealogical traditions.
Scripture: Apocrypha (variant tradition)

Moresheth (personal-designation)

Primarily a location, included only where the text uses personal or lineage-related designation.
Scripture: Micah 1:1 (contextual)

Moriah (personal-designation)

A name known primarily through geographical use, included here due to personal designation in traditional lists.
Scripture: Genesis 22:2 (contextual)

Mosa

Mosa was a descendant of Saul listed among the Benjamite genealogies after the exile.
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 8:37

Moses

Moses was the prophet, leader, and lawgiver whom God raised up to deliver Israel from slavery in Egypt. Through Moses, God revealed His covenant, His commandments, and His holiness. Moses spoke with God “as a man speaks to his friend,” interceded for Israel countless times, and prepared the way for the coming of the greater Prophet whom God would send—Jesus Christ. Moses’ life displays humility, obedience, and the faithfulness of God in shaping a people for His name.
Scripture: Exodus 1–34; Deuteronomy 34; Hebrews 3:1–6; John 1:17

Moserah (personal-designation)

Primarily a geographic term, included where used in variant personal-form contexts.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 10:6 (contextual)

Moth (variant)

A genealogical variant appearing in post-biblical lists.
Scripture: Variant tradition

Muppim

Muppim was one of the sons of Benjamin listed among the founding families of the tribe.
Scripture: Genesis 46:21; Numbers 26:39

Mushi

Mushi was a son of Merari and ancestor of the Mushites, who served among the Levitical families.
Scripture: Numbers 3:20

— Mushites (group designation)
Scripture: Numbers 3:20

Myra (personal-designation)

Primarily a place associated with Paul’s journey, included only where used in variant personal designation.
Scripture: Acts 27:5 (contextual)

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As we complete the letter M, we are reminded that God’s story is not shaped only by towering figures such as Moses, Mary, and Melchizedek, but also by the many men and women whose faithfulness appears in short genealogical lines and brief mentions. Scripture preserves them because God remembers them. Their presence strengthens our confidence that God is at work in all people who trust Him and points us toward the One who fulfills every promise—Jesus Christ, the true Redeemer and the center of all Scripture.

Moving forward into the letter N, we continue tracing the people who lived, struggled, believed, and bore witness to God’s faithfulness across the pages of the Bible.