melakhim

Melakhim is a Hebrew word that translates to "kings" in English. It is the plural form of "melekh," meaning king. The term is most commonly encountered in religious and historical contexts, particularly within Judaism and the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament).

In the Hebrew Bible, the period of the monarchy is often referred to as the era of the melakhim. This includes the reigns of prominent figures such as Saul, David, and Solomon, who are considered the first kings of ancient Israel. The books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles extensively detail the lives, deeds, and legacies of these and subsequent melakhim, often focusing on their adherence to or deviation from divine commandments and their impact on the nation of Israel. The concept of the melakh also carries theological significance, with the idea of a divine king or a messianic king being central to Jewish theology.

Beyond its literal meaning, "melakhim" can sometimes be used metaphorically to refer to leaders or individuals of great power and influence, though this is a less common usage. The word and its related forms are integral to understanding the political and religious history of ancient Israel as presented in sacred texts.