MAACAH/MAACHAH: The mother of Absalom and one of David's wives II Sam 3:3 Maachah 1st Chron 3:2
MACCABEES: From 167 to 63 BC A family who was Jewish patriots who headed up a religious revolt against the Syrians in Palestine.
MACEDONIA: North of Greece a mountainous country that was apostle Paul's first European territory visit. In the cities of Philippi and Thessalonica he planted churches. Act 16 , 17 , 20 Paul's vision of a man pleading "come over into Macedonia and help us" was his famous vision "Macedonian call" Acts 16:9
MACHIR (MAKIR) Oldest son of Manasseh Josh 17:1 Joseph's grandson and a military hero who became the ancestor of the Macherites Ist Chron 7:17-18
MACHPELAH -- A field containing a cave which Abraham bought as a burial ground Gen 23:9-18 Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Leah were all buried here. Gen 25:9-10 ; 49:29-33
MACHERITES: The people who won significant victories over the Amorites during the conquest of Canaan Num 32:29
MAD (INSANE) -- A term used mostly for insanity, however it may also refer to anger or confusion I Cor 14:23 In order to escape from Achish David pretended to be insane. I Sam 21:13-15
MADAI -- Japheth's son and ancestor of the Medes Gen 10:2
MAGDALA -- Possible the home of Mary Magdalene a city of Galilee near Capernaum Matt 27:56
MAGIC -- To deceive or to bring benefits with the practice of illusion and sleight of hand. Consult magicians or sorcerers were forbidden by the Israelites Lev 19:31
MAGISTRATE -- Civil ruler or authority. Paul and were beat and imprisoned for healing a demented slave girl by the Magistrates in Philippi. Acts 16:18-23
MAGNIFICAT -- Upon learning she would give birth to the Messiah the song or poem of the Virgin Mary. Luke 1:46-55
MAHALATH, MAHALATH LEANNOTH --Probably refers to a tune or musical instrument to be used in worship in the phrase in the titles of Ps 53 and 88
MAHANAIM -- It means "two armies" or "two camps" which Jacob gave to a site neat the Jabbok River while waiting for his brother Esau he was visited by angels. Gen 32:1-2 Later a city was established on the very same site. Josh 21:38
MAHER-SHALAL-HASHBAZ -- The prophet Isaiah gave this symbolic name to his second son, meaning "hasten the booty" Isa 8:1-4 It signified that Assyria would conquer Syria and Israel.
MAHLON -- The elder son of Naomi and the first husband of Ruth. After the marriage to Ruth he died about ten years later Ruth 1:5
MAID -- Often of the servant class a young unmarried woman Ruth 2:8 The word may also refer to a female slave or a virgin.
MAIDSERVANT -- Handmaid or a female servant Ruth 3:9
MAINSAIL (FORESAIL) -- The principal or dominant sail of a ship Acts 27:40
MAJESTY -- A term referring to the power, dignity, and authority of a high official or a king I Chron 29:24-25
MAJOR PROPHETS -- Because of the longer length of their books a term for the prophetic books which are listed first in the Old Testament. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
MAKKEDAH --Captured by Joshua a royal Canaanite town Josh 10:10-26 and then assigned to the tribe of Judah Josh 15:20 , 41
MAKTESH -- Where Merchants bought and sold goods a district near Jerusalem. For their sinful practices they were denounced by the prophet Zephaniah Zeph 1:11
MALACHI -- An Old Testament prophet and author of the Old Testament book Malachi. His name means "my messenger" Mal 1:1 He was probably a contemporary of the prophet Nehemiah because he lived after the Babylonian exile.
MALACHI, BOOK OF -- Written about 100 years after the Babylonian Exile and directed against shallow and meaningless worship practices A Short prophetic book in the Old Testament . The people of Israel was being condemned by the prophet for sacrificing defective animals Mal 1:8 and withholding tithes and offering Mal 3:8-10 In the closing of the book it closes with a note of hope regarding the future Messiah
MALCHI-SHUA/CHISHUA (MALKI-SHUA) -- King Saul's son who was killed by the Philistines in the battle at Gilboa I Sam 14:49 Malki-shua I Sam 31:2 in the NIV
MALCHUS -- Jesus rebuked Peter and restored the severed ear of a servant of the high priest whose ear was cut off by Peter. John 18:10-11
MALEFACTOR (CRIMINAL) -- A criminal or rebel. When Christ was crucified He was placed between two malefactors Luke 23:32-33
MALICE -- The intention or burning desire to hurt others We all as Christians are urged to renounce malice Eph 4:31 and to pry of those guilty of this sin Matt 5:44
MALLOWS (HERB) -- A wild shrub or plant which thrived near the Dead Sea in the salty dry regions. The poor sometimes eat it. Job 30:3-4
MAMMON (MONEY, WEALTH) -- Material possessions or wealth. Could become false gods that should not be worshiped Matt 6:24 Christ urged believers to seek kingdom interests and promised that their material needs would be met by God. Matt 6:33
| MAMRE | (1.) | An Amorite chief and Abraham supporter who gave his name to the plains where Abraham lived Gen 14:13 |
| (2.) | A district or town near Hebron where Abraham lived Gen 13:18 ; 18:1 |
MAN -- The being created by God for His glory and in His image Gen 1:26-27 ; 9:6 Isa 43:7 Man was given dominion over the natural world Ps 8:4-6 Man's sin separated him from God. Rom 3:23 Grace through faith in Christ He may be redeemed Rom 3:22-24
MANAEN -- A prophet and teacher at Antioch's church. He laid hands on Paul and Barnabas, along with others, endorsing their call to the missionary service. Acts 13:1-3
| MANASSEH | ( 1. ) | Joseph's elder son was Nanasseh. His brother Ephraim and him were half Hebrew and half Egyptian, their mother being Asenath, the daughter of an Egyptian priest. Both son were founders of Hebrew tribes. Genesis 41 , 46 , 48 , 50 ; Numbers 26 , 27 , 32 ; Joshua 13 , 17 ; I Chronicles 7 |
| ( 2. ) | The son of Hezekiah became king at twelve years of age and the first twenty-three years of his fifty-five year reign was in gross wickedness. Sacrificed his own children, he rebuilt the idols that his father had destroyed, and burned the copies of the Word of God. He named his son "Amon" for an Egyptian god. Assyria overran his kingdom in the twenty-third year and Manasseh was taken captive to Babylon. He returned to God in this twelve year captive returned to God and was restored to the throne of Judah he endeavored to undo all of his wrongs. II Kings 21 , 23 ; II Chronicles 33 |
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MANDRAKE -- An aromatic fragrance plant (Song of Sol 7:13) Thought to generate fertility from its fruit. Gen 30:14-16
MANEH (MINA) -- About two pounds a Hebrew weight equal to fifty shekels Ezek 45:12
MANGER -- For livestock the feeding trough. After His birth the infant Jesus was laid in a manger. Luke 2:1-16
MANNA -- Miraculously provided food by the Lord for the Israelites in the wilderness Num 11:7-9 "bread from heaven" is was called Exod 16:4 Every day for forty years except Sabbath manna was provided.
MANOAH -- Father of Samson and a member of the tribe of Dan Judg 13:1-25
MANSERVANT (MALE SLAVE) -- A male domestic servant, most of the time a slave Exod 21:32
MANSLAYER (SLAYER) -- A person who accidentally killed another person. In a city of refuge this person could seek asylum from the avenging relatives of the victim Num 35:6-12
MANTLE (CLOAK) -- Similar to a robe an outer garment. Made of sheep skin or coarse cloth. As a symbol of blessing and succession Elijah's mantle was place on Elisha. I Kings 19:19-21
MARA -- Because it expressed her sorrow at the death of her husband and sons a name meaning "bitter" which was taken by Naomi Ruth 1:3-21
MARANATHA -- Expresses hope for the second coming of Jesus an Aramaic phrase meaning "come, O Lord" I Cor 16:22
MARBLE -- Noted for its durability and beauty as a building material crystalline limestone. Used in the building of the temple in Jerusalem I Chron 29:2
MARESHAH -- Built for defensive purposes by King Rehoboam II Chron 11:5 , 8 a town of Judah Josh 15:20 The battle between King Zerah of Ethiopia and King Asa of Judah was fought here II Chron 14:9-10
MARINER -- A sailor or seaman. The mariners on his ship during a storm was reassured by Paul Acts 27:31-36
MARK/JOHN/MARCUS-- He was called John Mark for John being his first (Hebrew) and Mark (Roman) being his last name. Mary, an influential Christian woman in Jerusalem was his mother. A prayer meeting on behalf of the imprisoned Peter, held at Mary's house is the first appearance of John Mark in the bible. Barnabas who was Paul's associate and co-worker was probably Paul's cousin who went with Paul on his first missionary journey. They departed company at Perga for some reason usually attributed to a difference of opinion and Mark returned. Barnabas wanted to take Mark along on Paul's second journey and Paul refused. Neither Barnabas or Mark went with him but went to the island of Cyprus to continue the work in that area. A reconciliation took place with Mark in Rome with Paul in later years. Mark was also in Rome with Peter. The credit for having converted Mark is given to Peter who was his close companion for years. The second gospel the shortest of the four, is written by Mark who stated that he recorded his information as Peter preached it. He begins his book with the voice of John, the Baptist crying in the wilderness is why his symbol of evangelist is the winged lion. Tradition has it that Mark's body was buried in Venice after becoMming a martyr. Dedicated to his memory is the St. Mark Church in Venice with his symbol adorned the flag of the Venetian Republic.
MARK, GOSPEL OF -- According to most scholars Mark being one of the four Gospels in the New Testament was probably the first to be written. Only sixteen chapters in this short Gospel. Jesus was portrayed by Mark as a person of action To show that Jesus was on an important mission for God and had no time to waste, He uses the words immediately Mark 1:12 ; 2:8 straightway Mark 8:10 Mark emphasizes the humanity of Jesus more than the other Gospel writers, however he makes it clear that Jesus was the Son of God Mark 15:39 His disappointment Mark 8:12 fatigue Mark 4:38, sorrow Mark 14:34, and anger Mark 11:15-17
MARKET; MARKETPLACE -- Agora was the Greek word for market place. In a city an large open area where discussions, trade and trials were conducted Acts 16:19-20 Children often used these areas to play in Luke 7:32
MARRIAGE -- Commitment to one another or union of a man and a women as husband and wife. In the garden of Eden first instituted by God. Gen 2:18 Confirmed by Christ marriage was Matt 19:5 enjoined by Paul Eph 5:22-29 Husband and wife love for one another is symbolic of Christ's love for his church. Eph 5:23-25
MARROW -- Of the bones the tissue in the cavities. The word is also used to illustrate the piercing power of the Word of God Heb 4:12
MARTHA -- She lived with her sister, Mary and her brother, Lazarus, who lived together in Bethany, a small town near the Mount of Olives, outside of Jerusalem. In the gospels she appears three times, 1. when Jesus was a guest to their home and she wanted Mary to help her ; 2. when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead ; 3. Mary anointed his feet at the feast that was given in Jesus' honor. Jesus first announced that he would be victorious over death to Martha. John 11:25 -- 26 ; Luke 10: 34 , 40 , 41 ; John 11 -- 12:2
MARTYRDOM -- Being put to death in defense of one's faith. Christians may face such an end Rev 6:9 The wicked will give account for the blood of the martyrs Luke 11:49-51
| MARY | ( 1. ) | THE MOTHER OF JESUS: A young girl who was engaged to Joseph Luke 1:27 and a descendant of David from Bethlehem Matt 1:16 The Young woman's announcement to be the mother of the Messiah was given to her by the Angel |
| ( 2. ) | MARY MAGDALENE -- She is not the wicked woman referred to in Luke 7: 36-50 even that Jesus had cast seven |
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| ( 3. ) | THE SISTER OF MARTHA: In all three instances where Martha is mentioned Mary is also mentioned in the New |
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| ( 4. ) | Mother of James and Joses: Her son was James the Less and one of the apostles. She was a follower of Jesus, |
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| ( 5. ) | THE MOTHER OF JOHN MARK: Acts 12:12 The are six Marys in the New Testament and none in the Old Testament. Mary, the Mother of John Mark lived in Jerusalem and was a prominent Christian. Upon Peter's release he immediately went to her home which was used for a meeting place. Acts 12 |
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| ( 6. ) | THE UNKNON MARY: little is known about her except what is in Luke 7:36-50 and what Paul writes in his letter to the Roman Christians Rom 16:6 | |
MASCHIL -- Appears in the titles of thirteen psalms a Hebrew word apparently giving diredtions for the melody to be sung Psalms 32 , 42 , 44, 45 , 52 , 53 , 54 , 55 , 74 , 78 , 88 , 89 , 142
MASON --Stone worker or bricklayer. To build the temple in Jerusalem Phoenician masons were used by Solomon I Kings 5:17-18
MASSAH AND MERIBAH -- In the wilderness a site where the Israelites rebelled against Aaron and Moses Exod 17:4-7 The wrath of the Lord was provoked by their complaints. Deut 6:16
MAST -- The wooden frame of rigging on a ship that held the sails. Ezek 27:5 Figuratively the word was used to show the strength of Israel's enemies. Isa 33:23
MASTER (TEACHER) -- Often applied to Christ the word master meaning teacher. Mat 22:16, 24 It was also used as a term of respect fro one's superiors in the Old Testament. Gen 24:48-49
MATTHEW/LEVI -- Matthew was a Jew publican, who worked for the Romans, his job was to collect taxes from those who passed along the Damascus Road. When Jesus called him to follow him Matthew rose up and followed at once giving up his despised position Formerly know as Levi, he gave it all up, his old name with its unfavorable associations to follow Jesus. He then prepared a great feast in honor of Jesus. He became the evangelist of Alexandria, Egypt and its first Bishop. During the reign of the Emperor Trajan He was martyred by being dragged through the streets.. He is believed to be buried in Venice. As the author of the first gospel, the keynote of which is the Kingdom and King. His symbol as an evangelist is in ecclesiastical art is a winged man because Matthew starts his account with the genealogy of Jesus. Matthew symbol as an apostle, is the purse because he handled money as a tax gatherer. Matthew 9:9
MATTHEW, GOSPEL OF --Of the New Testament one of the four Gospels, written by a person who was a tax collector before becoming a apostles of Jesus Matthew was written to show the Jewish people that Jesus was the Messiah that had been promised in the Old Testament. Many events in Jesus' life fulfilled the scriptures Matt 1:22 ; 4:14 ; 12:17 ; 21:4 ; 27:35 Jesus' earthly father, is traced to two of the greatest personalities in Jewish history. David Matt 1:6 and Abraham Matt 1:2 Matthew's Gospel emphasizes the teaching ministry of Jesus, His particularly instructions to His disciples in the Sermon on the Mount Matt 5:1-7:27 The kingdom of God or the kingdom of heaven and another prominent theme of Matt. Mat 5:3 ; 6:33 ; 8:11 ; 12:28 13:43-46 19:23 21:31 25:34 ;
MATTHIAS -- He had been following Jesus during His ministry and was chosen by a lot drawing to fill the vacancy among the Twelve Disciples due to the death of Judas Iscariot. Tradition says he was martyred in Ethiopia but no other records are show of him. Acts 1:23 , 26
MATTOCK (HOE) -- Similar to a crude hoe an agricultural used to loosen the soil and remove roots Isa 7:25
MAUL (CLUB) -- Used as a weapon of war a heavy club. Often studded with spikes the head was. Prov 25:18 Club Jer 51:20
MAW (STOMACH) -- An animal that chews the cud stomach. Considered a delicacy by the Hebrews, the priests; portion of sacrificial animals became the maw, shoulders, cheeks Deut 18:3
MAZZAROTH -- Evidence of the power and sovereignty of God cited by Job is the constellation of stars. Job 38:31-33
MEAT OFFERING -- Made to atone for sins offering of a sacrificial animal I Chron 21:23
MEDEBA -- Israel took this old Moabite town from King Sihon Num 21:23-30 and then gave it the the tribe of Reuben Josh 13:8-16
MEDES, MEDIA -- Descendants of Japheth Gen 10:2and an ancient kingdom between the Caspian Sea and the Tigris River which Sargon of Assyria brought Hebrew captives II Kings 17:6 ; 18:11
MEDIATOR, CHRIST THE --Describes His work in reconciling us to God, a title of Christ. Possible for us to have peace with God and with each other with His sacrificial death Eph 2:13-16 He has made a full and final sacrifice for our salvation as our Mediator Heb 7:27
MEDICINE -- Contemplation of spiritual truths Ps 119:148 which produces understanding Ps 49:3 and spiritual satisfaction Ps 63:5-6 Meditation on God's commands encourages obedience Josh 1:8
MEDITATION -- Contemplation of spiritual truths Ps 119:48 which produces understanding Ps 49:3 and spiritual satisfaction Ps 63:5-6 Meditation on God's commands encourages obedience Josh 1:8
MEDITERRANEAN SEA/GREAT SEA -- Also called the Great Sea it was the sea on Israel's western border. Josh 9:1 Import/export services for Israel across this body of water was done by Solomon using he Phoenicians. I Kings 9:27
MEDIUM -- A communicator between the spirit world and humans. Those professing mediums or wizards were to be stoned to death by the Mosaic Law Lev 20:27 Rather than listening to the Lord the prophet Isaiah warned against consulting the dead. Isa 8:19-20 ; 19:3
MEEKNESS -- A humble, kind, and gentle spirit. The meek will find spiritual satisfaction Ps 22:26 and receive God's instruction Ps 25:9 Meekness as one of the fruits of the spirit cited by Paul. Gal 5:22-23 The meek will inherit the earth declared by Jesus Matt 5:5
MEGIDDO/MEGIDDON -- Associated with the great battle in the end time a fortified city west of the Jordan river in the plain of Jezreel. Barak's victory over Sisera was this city. Judg 4:14-16 Also in this city the King Josiah's death in a battle with Pharaoh Necho of Egypt II Chron 35:22-24 In this site the final battle between the forces of evil and God will occur Zech 12:11 ; Rev 16:16 Megiddon Zech 12:11
MELCHIZEDEK/MELCHISEDEC -- The priest and king of Salem (Jerusalem) Melchizedek was a godly man. Abraham was his contemporary and gave the king a tithe of the spoils he had taken for the king on one occasion furnished refreshment for him and his men. Christ was said to be a priest after the order of Melchizdek, king and priest of the highest order in Hebrews 7: 1-10 ; Gen 14:17 -- 20 ; Psalm 110:4
MELITA (MALTA -- Paul was shipwrecked while sailing to Rome on this island south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea Acts 28:1-8
MELON -- The Israelites longed for this fruit, apparently grown in Egypt, during their wilderness wandering Num 11:5
MEM -- Used as a heading over Ps 119:97-104 and the thirteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet
MENAHEM --One of the last of the kings of Israel and the son of Gadi. Nenahem was an usurper who slew Shallum his opponent. reigned for king During his ten- years as king Israel paid heavy taxes to Assyria, from about 752 to 742 BC His son Pedahiah succeeded him as king. II Kings 15:14 -- 23
MEPHIBOSHETH/MERIBBAAL -- David's friend Jonathan's crippled son and a grandson of King Saul. Crippled at the age of five when dropped by his nurse and crippled when she received the news hat Jonathan and Saul had been killed by the Philistines II Sam 4:4 After David sought out Mephibosheth, gave him a place at the king's table and restored his family's land Merib-baal: I Chron 8:34
MERARI -- Levi's third son and ancestor of the Merarites Gen 46:11 ; Exod 6:19
MERCHANDISE -- Items sold and bought in business transactions. Caravans of traders passed through Israel on their way to and from Egypt Gen 37:25-28 Maritime trading agreements was established by Solomon with the king of Tyre I Kings 9:26
MERCURIUS (HERMES) -- The Roman name for the god of commerce and the pagan god Mercury. Also applied the name to Paul by the people of Lystra Acts 14:12
MERCY (COMPASSION) -- Compassion for others God's mercies are abundant I Pet 1:3 and fresh every morning Lam 3:22-23 As "the father of all mercies" is who Paul described God. II Cor 1:3 The Samaritan who showed mercy for a wounded traveler was commended by Jesus. Luke 10:36-37
MERCY SEAT (COVER) -- It was called the "mercy seat" because God was believed to be present to hear and answer prayers on the gold lid which covered the ark of the covenant. Exod 25:21-22 The high priest sprinkled blood of the sin offering on the mercy seat as a propitiation for he people's in on the Day of Atonement. Lev 16:11-16
MERODACH (MARDUK) -- The prophet Jeremiah predicted the overthrow of this pagan Babylonian god of war. Jer 50:2
| MESHA | (1.) | A king of Moab who offered his oldest son as a sacrifice to the pagan god Chemosh II Kings 3:4, 26-27 and led an unsuccessful invasion of Judah II Chron 20 |
| (2.) | Caleb oldest son I Chron 2:42 |
MESHACH/MISHAEL -- Mishael was his original name of one of Daniel's companions. When they were taken into captivity the chief Eunuch changed it to Meshach. Meshach and two others are the ones who were saved from the fiery furnace because of their faith. Daniel 1 , 2 , 3
MESOPOTAMIA/PADAN-ARAM -- Also known as Padan-aram The territory between the Euphrates and the Tigris rivers. Gen 25:20 From the city of Ur in this region Abraham and his family migrated Gen 11:31-32 ; Acts 7:2 During the Old Testament times in this general vicinity the Babylonian Empire flourished. On the day of Pentecost citizens of Mesopotamiah were present in Jerusalem. Acts 2:9
MESS -- A portion of food that was served at a meal II Sam 11:8 It was considered an honor to receive a larger-than-usual portion of food. Gen 43:34
MESSENGER -- Some one sent to deliver a special message. Couriers were sent by Jewish kings to distant cities to proclaim laws and edicts II Chron 36:22-23 John the Baptist prepared the people for the coming of Jesus and was a messenger. Matt 11:10
MESSIAH/MESSIAS (ANOINTED ONE) -- Given to a future leader by the Jewish people whom they expected to restore their honor and glory after delivering them from their oppressors Dan 9:25-26 Jesus in an unexpected way fulfilled their longing Rom 6:1-9 Messias: Greek form: John 1:41 ; 4:25
METHUSELAH/MATHUSALA -- Enoch's son Gen 5:21 and Noah's grandfather. Methuselah lived to the age of 969, it is the oldest recorded age in the Bible.
METHUSELAHMATHUSALA -- He was the son of Enoch, the father of Lamech, the grandfather of Noah and lived before the flood when lifetimes were unbelievably long, he died at 969 years old. Because he holds the record for the longest life the origin of today's by-word "as old as Methuselah" come from his long life. Genesis 5: 21-27
MICAH -- His surname was "the Morasthite" being a native of Moresheth, a day's journey from Jerusalem on the Philistine border and the sixth of the Minor Prophets. All three, Micah, Isaiah, and Hosea were all proclaiming the same message in their own areas, the impending fall of Israel and Judah. Micah was a farmer and ministered to the common people, and served during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The reformation under Hezekiah was the results of Micah's preaching Jeremiah 26:18
MICAH, BOOK OF -- Known for its prediction that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem a short prophetic book of the Old Testament. Micah 5:2 For oppressing the poor the prophet also condemned the rich. Micah 2:1-2 ; 6:7-13 He announced that God's judgment would be wrought by the conquering Assyrians against the nations of Judah and Israel. Micah 1 , 3 , 7:10-13
MICAIAH -- Micaiah was imprisoned for his stinging message that predicted that King Ahab of Israel would be killed in battle at Ramoth-gilead, in contrast to false prophets who assured the king he would be victorious I Kings 22:8-28 His prediction was correct I Kings 22:29-39
| MICHAEL | (1.) | An archangel thought to serve as a guardian and prince over the nation of Israel Dan 10:21 12:1 |
| (2.) | Jehoshaphat king of Judah son who was killed by his brother Jehoram, who became king II Chron 21:2-4 |
MICHAL -- Michal was the David's first wife and the daughter of King Saul. She saved the life of David by helping him escape from Saul's forces when they were about to capture him through a window. When David was a fugitive she was given to another man but then returned to David. When the Ark was being brought in triumph into Jerusalem She mocked him when he danced before the Ark. I Samuel 18:20 -- 19:17 II Samuel 3: 13 , 14 ; 6: 16 -- 23
MICHMAS/MICHMASH (MICMASH) -- Occupied by Saul's army a town near Jerusalem I Sam 13:2-4 also the site of Jonathan's victory over the Philistines I Sam 14:6-18 After the Babylonian exile some Jewish citizens returned to this city. Ezra 2:27
MICHTAM -- Perhaps designating a particular type of Psalm. A word that is used int the titles of Ps 16 and Ps 56-60
MIDDLE WALL OF PARTITION (BARRIER, DAVIDING WALL) -- In the Jewish temple at Jerusalem the curtain or barrier which separated Gentiles and Jews. Christ's atonement remove this partition and brought people and reconciliation to people of all nationalities and races. Eph 2:14-18
| MIDIAN/MADIAN | (1.) | East of the Jordan river, including the Sinai Peninsula and Edom, a region in the Arabian desert which was occupied by the Midianites Exod 2:15 Madian Acts 7:29 |
| (2.) | Abraham son by Keturah and founder of the Midianites Gen 25:1-4 ; I Chron 1:32-33 |
MIDIANITE -- Occupied the land of Midian, Nomadic traders. A band of Midianites traders probably bought Joseph and sold him as a slave in Egypt Gen 37:28 This tribe joined the Moabites in the failed attack against the Israel . Num 22 Probably being absorbed into the Moabites and the Arabs the Midianites disappeared.
MIDWIFE -- A Hebrew woman, who assisted other women in the process of childbirth. Egyptian Pharaoh's ordered all male children to be killed and many midwives refused the orders to kill the male children Exod 1:15-17
MIGDOL -- After their nation fell to the Babylonians about 587 B.C. a place in northeastern Egypt where some citizens of Judah fled to. Jer 44:1 ; 46:14
MIGHTY MEN (FIGHTING MEN, WARRIORS) -- Before and after he became king the brave and loyal warriors who risked their lives for David. II Sam 23:8-39 Known as Mighty men of valor Joshua also had the support of courageous warriors. Josh 1:14 ; 10:7
MILCOM/MOLECH/MOLOCH -- Ammonites' supreme god I Kings 11:5 For worship of this pagan god Solomon built a sanctuary, but it was destroyed during King Josiah's reforms II Kings 23:12-13 Molech Lev 20:2 Moloch Acts 7:43
MILE -- Equaled 1,000 paces or 1616 yards a Roman unit for measuring distance. To teach His followers forgiveness and forbearance Jesus used this term. Matt 5:41
MILETUS/MILETUM -- About forty miles south of Ephesus a coastal city of Asia Minor. Paul gave a moving farewell address when he met the leaders of the Ephesian church here. Acts 20:15-38 Miletum II Tim 4:20
MILK -- Taken from cows, camels, goats, and sheep a liquid for cheese making and drinking . Gen 32:14-15 Figuratively used to indicate abundance Exod 3:8 and the diet of immature Christians I Cor 3:1-2
MILL -- Consisting of two stones which pulverized the grain between them, a device for grinding grain into flour. Exod 11:5 ; Matt 24:41
MILLENNIUM -- A term for the period of 1,000 years described in Rev 20:1-8
MILLET -- Used for making bread a plant which produced small heads of grain Ezek 4:9
| MILLO | (1.) | Built by David near Jerusalem a defensive fortress tower II Sam 5:9 Solomon then improved it in anticipation of an Assyrian siege I Kings 9:15 |
| (2.) | At Shechem a fortress or stronghold that the occupants proclaimed Abimelech as their king Judg 9:6, 20 |
MIND -- The faculty reasoning of human beings. The word heart in the bible often means "mind" Ps 19:14 Those have corrupt minds who reject God Rom 1:28 and with the carnally minded being the enemies of God Rom 8:6-7 Jesus urged His followers to love God with all their heart and minds. Matt 22:37 Christians at Rome was encouraged by Paul to have their minds renewed so they would know and follow the will of God Rom 12:2
MINE -- A hole or opening where metals were extracted from the earth. Around the Dead Sea copper and Iron were mined, especially during Solomon's reign I Kings 9:26-28
MINISTER -- Often used interchangeable with the word servant a term for a person who serves others. It is also applied other than religious meaning it applied to court attendants I Kings 10:5 and civil rulers Rom 13:4-6 Preach the word and perform duty as God's servants were instructed to all Christians. II Tim 4:2-5
MINISTRY -- In the name of God service. This service demands a spirit of sacrificial service after the example of Christ. Matt 20:26-28 All Christians are called to be fishers of men Mark 1:17 ambassadors for Christ in the work of reconciliation II Cor 5:18-20 and to perfect believers Eph 4:11-12
MINOR PROPHETS -- In the Old Testament the twelve prophets whose books were placed last in the prophetic writings because of their shorter length. Malachi, Zechariah, Haggai, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Nahum, Micah, Jonah, Obadiah, Amos, Joel, and Hosea.
MINSTREL (HARPI9ST, MUSICIAN -- A musician or singer II Kings 3:15 As in the case of the daughter of Jairus often employed at funerals or wakes. Matt 9:23
MINT -- Used in seasoning foods and in medicine a common, inexpensive herb Jesus mentioned mint in Matt 23:23
MIPHKAD (INSPECITON GATE, MUSTER GATE) -- In the walls or Jerusalem or the temple rebuilt by Nehemiah a gate Neh 3:31
MIRACLE -- God's suspension or intervention of the natural laws of the universe. In the New Testament miracles are described as signs, powers, mighty words, and wonders. MIRACLES OF JESUS
MIRIAM -- As Moses' sister, an obedient and dependable young girl she stood on the river bank, watching the floating cradle with Moses in it, she went to get her mother to be his nurse after the Pharaoh's daughter discovered him. With her two brothers , Aaron and Moses she took an active part in the life of her people. After the Israelites were safely out of Egypt and through the Red Sea, Miriam took the tambourine and led the women in singing the refrain of the song of praise to God that Moses was leading the people in. She was stricken with leprosy when she complained about Mose's foreign wife and his position. After Moses' prayer God healed her. She died at Kadesh and never entered the Promised Land Exodus 15:20 , 21 ; Numbers 12 , 20:1
MISGAB (STRONGHOLD, FORTRESS -- Perhaps a mountainous region or fortified outpost but an unknown site in Moab. Jer 48:1
MISHEAL (MISHAL) -- Designated as a city of refuge in the territory of Asher assigned to the Levites. Josh 19:26
MISSIONS -- It is the process of carrying out Jesus' Great Commission give to the disciples and to teach all people. Abraham in the Old Testament was called to be a blessing to all nations Gen 12:1-3 The Lord sent Jonah to preach to the pagan citizens of Nineveh Jon 1:2 To do missions is promoted by God's love John 3:16 mankind's lost condition Rom 3:9-31 The Holy Spirit's presence equipped believers for this task Acts 1:8 with the power of prayer Acts 13:1-4Those who believe and follow Jesus are to evangelize all nations, baptize believers, and teach His commands Matt 28:19-20
MIST -- A fog or vapor. Before the first rainfall the earth was watered by a mist Gen 2:6 Darkness and Mist are figuratively used to describe spiritual blindness Acts 13:11
MISTRESS -- A woman with authority or power Gen 16:4-9 Queen Jezebel I Kings 21:7-11 and Queen Sheba I Kings 10:1-3 were two women of authority.
MITE -- In the New Testament time it was the coin with the smallest value, worth less than a penny. A poor window's sacrificial gift of two mites were commended by Jesus Mark 12:42
MITRE (TURBAN) -- Worn by the high priest, a head dress. Lev 8:9 Attached to the mitre was a gold plate inscribed with "holiness to the Lord" Exod 39:28-31
MITYLENE -- In the Aegean Sea the principal city of the island of Lesbos. Paul spent a night at Mitylene Acts 20:13-15
MIZPAH -- Jacob and his father-in-law Laban agreed to a friendly separation and made a covenant. Using a pile of stones they marked the site. Gen 31:44-53
| MIZRAIM | (1.) | The Hebrew name for Egypt Gen 50:11 |
| (2.) | Father of Ludim and Ham's second son Gen 10:6-13 Egypt is where his descendants settled Gen 45:20 ; 50:11 |
MNASON -- He accompanied Paul on his last visit to Jerusalem, a Christian form the island of Cyprus Acts 21:16
| MOAB | (1.) | South of the Arnon River and laying east of the Jordan river and the Dead Sea the country of the Moabitws Deut 1:5-7 Its earliest name was Lot or Lotan since the inhabitants were descended from Lot Gen 19:37 |
| (2.) | Lot's son and an ancestor of the Moabites Gen 19:33-37 |
MOABITE STONE -- Confirms a significant event of the Old Testament time, A black memorial stone that confirms the rebellion of King Mesha of Moab against King Ahaziah of Israel II Kings 3:4-27
MOABITES -- Enemies of the Israelites and worshipers of Chemosh Pagan inhabitants of Moab. Num 21:29
MODERATION -- Forbearance and temperance. To be practiced before others Paul described moderation as a quality of gentleness Phil 4:5 To be moderate in all things we as Christians are counseled to be. I Cor 9:25
MOLE (CHAMELEON) -- Since no true moles are found in Palestine this KJV word probably refers to a chameleon or lizard. Lev 11:30
MOTLEN SEA -- Made by King Hiram of Tyre for ceremonial use by the priest in Solomon's temple at Jerusalem, A large bronze vessel I Kings 7:23
MONEY -- A medium of exchange. In th Old Testament Times before the Babylonian Exile, money that was used was a specific weight of precious metal, such as gold or silver. The Romans or Greeks issued the coins of the New Testament time. Matt 17:27 ; Mark 12:42 In Palestine before the New Testament era the earliest coins were Persian in origin.
MONEYCHANGERS -- Much like cashiers Independent agents, who converted money into "shekels of the sanctuary" which would be used in the temple at Jerusalem. Worshipers received from these bankers the required temple tax , the hald-hekel Exod 30:13-15 Jesus denounced these money changers who were charging excess fees for the exchanging or the money or their services. He overturned their tables and then drove them out of the temple. Matt 21:12
MONOGAMY -- The marriage of one man to one woman only. This was the pattern established in the Garden of Eden by God Gen 2:18-24 In the Old Testament many patriarchs, such as Jacob had more than one wife Gen 29:16-35
MONOTHEISM -- In contrast to polytheism or the worship of several gods this was the belief in one--and only one -- supreme God. His commands taught to others and the one true God is to be loved supremely. Deut 6:4-7 God will not tolerate the worship of any other god by His people and demands absolute loyalty. Exod 20:3-5
MONTH -- One of the twelve divisions of the year . Calculated from one new moon to the next was the length of the Hebrew month Num 10:10 ; 28:11-14
MOON -- Satellite or heavenly body that revolves around the earth, it is referred to as the lesser light in the account of creation Gen 1:16 The beginning of a Jewish month started with a new moon and with its arrival they would celebrate it with special sacrifices Num 28:11-15 God forbade the practice by the Hebrews of worshiping the various pagan peoples. Deut 4:19
MORDECAI -- As Joseph had in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon, Mordecai was a Benjaminite who lived in the royal court in Persia. After the death of her parents He adopted Esther and raised her as his own. After becoming the queen of Persia, with Mordecai help the two of them stopped Haman's plot to exterminate the Jews. Esther 2 -- 10
MOREH -- After entering Canaan Abraham built an altar in this place near Shechem Gen 12:6-7
MORESHETH-GATH -- Micah the prophet birthplace in the lowland plain of Judah Mic 1:14
MORIAH -- Commanded by God the mountainous area in Jerusalem where Abraham was to sacrifice his son Isaac Gen 22:1-3 Later Abraham renamed the site Jehovah-jireh, meaning the Lord will provide after God provided a sacrifice other than Isaac Gen 22:14
MORNING STAR -- As it appears at dawn the plant Venus. Figurative title for Christ Rev 22:16 The morning star is how Christ is described, which outshines the light of prophetic witness II Pet 1:19
MORTALITY -- The condition of humans that which leads eventually to physical death which is the entrance to eternal life for believers II Cor 5:4-6 Eternal life and bodily resurrection are as certain as physical death for the Christian I Cor 15:21-23
MORTAR -- Used to build the tower of Babel was a mixture of lime and sand. Gen 11:3 In Egypt the Israelites worked with mortar and bricks Exod 1:14
MOSERA/MOSEROTH -- Aaron died and was buried in this place in the wilderness where the Israelites camped on their way to Canaan. Deut 10:6 Moseroth: Num 33:30-31
MOSES -- Moses was the son of Amram, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Jacob. His mother's name was Jochebed, his sister's Miriam, and his brother's Aaron.
Most people divide Moses' adventurous life into three periods with each one forty years long. Miriam, his sister watched over him where his mother hid him in a watertight basket among the bullrushes on the river's bank. His mother placed him there because Pharaoh issued a decree that all male children born of Hebrew parents should be cast into the river to be killed. The Pharaoh's daughter found the infant Moses and took him home to be raised as her own child.
For the first 40 years period of his life he live in the palace of the Pharaoh, with the education and privileges of aprince. Moses' second forty-year period of his life started when he saw an Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew slave and killed the Egyptian. Escaping to the desert land of of Midian, the southeastern part of the Sinai peninsula, as a fugitive a20nd beyond the jurisdiction of the Egyptians. He kept the flocks of sheep of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. His wife was Zipporah. Moses' third forty year period started when God spoken to him from the Burning Bush and commanded him to return to Egypt to lead the Israelites to their new home in Canaan. Moses and Aaron led the people across the Red Sea and out of Pharaoh's land after facing Pharaoh, winning the confidence of the Jewish people and initiated the Pass over feast. Moses received the ten commandments on the two tablets of stone from God on Mt. Sinai. He led the people during the years that they were wondering in the wilderness going to the promise land. Because he struck the rock twice instead of ordering the rock to yield its water as God instructed him to do. From Mt. Nobe he viewed the promise land before dieing. god buried Moses and no man knoweth of his sepulcher unto this day. Moses gave us the five books of Law in the Old Testament called the Pentateuch. Moses' name is mentioned in thirty books of the Bible.
MOST HIGH -- Signifying His majesty a name given for God Acts 7:48-49 Nonbelievers in the Old Testament Um 24:16 and the New Testament Acts 16:17 used this title.
MOTE (SPECK) -- Jesus used this word (A small particle of anything) to indicate the hypocrisy who found small flaws in others while they themselves were ignoring major defects of their own Matt 7:3-5
MOTH -- An insect that was very destructive. Wealthy Jews had to store their clothes so they wouldn't be destroyed by moths, Jesus used this word to indicate the fleeting nature of earthly riches, because it was so easy for the moth to destroy the clothes. Matt 6:19-20
MOTHER -- A term that covers a female parent , grandmother and other female relatives. Eve is regarded as the "mother of all living" Gen 3:20 Those who desire long life should honor and be obedience to Mothers. Exon 20:12 ; Mph 6:1-3 Israel was alluded to being call "mother" by the prophets in denouncing the nation's shameful sins Jr 50:12-13 ; Erek 19
MOUNT OF THE AMALEKITES -- Abdon, one of the judges of Israel was buried at this mountain in Ephraim Judg 12:15
MOURN -- To express sorrow or grief. For Moses and Aaron it was extended from a normal seven days to thirty days. Num 20:29 At His friend Lazarus death Jesus mourned John 11:33-36
MOUSE -- A rodent I Same 6:5 that were a destructive animal and found in Palestine. According to Mosaic law they were "unclean" Lev 11:29 ; Isa 66:17
MOUTH -- It was used for praise and prayer, the mouth has the potential for good or evil Ps 34:1 ; I Sam 1:12
MUFFLER (VEIL, SCARF) --Worn about the head or chest a veil or a long scarf. Isa 3:19
MULBERRY (BALSAM) -- Possibly the aspen, baca, or balsam but a common tree of Palestine II Sam 5:23
MULE -- Belonging to the horse family used extensively by the Hebrews a beast of burden. Absalom was carried to his death on a runaway mule II Sam 18:9-15
MULTITUDE (CROWD) -- A large group of people or crowd. Eager for learning or healing great multitudes followed Jesus. Matt 4:24-25 Several thousand in two multitudes were miraculously fed Matt 14:15-21
MURDER -- An act prohibited by Mosaic law, the unlawful killing of a another human being. Exod 20:13 People who did willful murder received the death penalty Exod 21:12 ; Lev 24:17 A person or persons who was guilty of manslaughter or accidental killing was provided with a city of refuge. Num 35:11 Warning of Intense anger that could lead to murder was given by Jesus Matt 5:20-25
MURRAIN -- The fifth plague and a mysterious disease that God brought against he Egyptians attacking their animals Exod 9:1-6
MUSIC -- Prominent in temple choirs were instrumental and vocal music II Sam 6:5 Jubal, son of Lamech invented musical instruments Gen 4:21 In their worship trumpets, psalteries, pipes, organs, harps, and cymbals were used by the Hebrews I Chron 15:16-22
MUSTARD SEED -- The seeds are usually from 1 to 2 millimeters (0.039 to 0.079 in.) in diameter a large annual plant up to 9 feet (2.7 m) tall, Referring to faith in Matthew 17:20 and Luke 17:6
MUTH-LABBEN -- In the title of Ps 9 A musical term perhaps referring to the tune for the psalm
MYRA: The province of Lycia in Asia Minor a town where Paul changed ships during his voyage to Rome Acts 27:5-6
MYRRH (RESIN): Found chiefly in Arabia it is an aromatic gum resin. Gen 37:25 Presented to the infant Jesus as one of the gifts. Matthew 2:11 Myrrh was used in medicine, embalming fluid, anointing oil, and incense perfume. Exodus 30:23 ; John 19:39
MYRTLE: Ever-green shrub common in Palestine. At the Feast of Tabernacles it branches were used. Neh 8:15 A symbolic of God's provision for His people was a myrtle tree in the desert. Isa 41:19 ; 55:13
MYSIA: Paul and Silas passed through this province in north western Asia Minor on the second missionary journey. Acts 16:7-10
MYSTERY (SECRET) Unknown except through divine revelation Rom 16:25-26 Jesus' parables he taught to reveal the mysteries of God's kingdom to His disciples Luke 8:10 The gospel is called a mystery Eph 3:8-9 Christ within us inspires our hope to share in His glory is revealed by Paul I Cor 15:51 ; Col 1:26-27
