How to Pronounce
Remaliahrehm-uh-LAI-uh
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Meaning
the exaltation of the Lord
Historical Context
Remaliah: A Name of Divine Exaltation
Remaliah (pronounced rehm-uh-LAI-uh) is a Hebrew name composed of two elements: rum, meaning "to exalt" or "to lift up," and Yah, the shortened form of Yahweh (God's covenant name). Together, the name carries the meaning "the exaltation of the Lord" or "the Lord exalts." This compound structure reflects a common Hebrew naming convention where divine attributes or actions are paired with God's name to express theological truths or parental hopes for a child.
Where Remaliah Appears in Scripture
Remaliah is best known as the father of King Pekah of Israel. The name appears throughout 2 Kings 15 and 16, where Pekah is consistently identified as "Pekah son of Remaliah." During the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, Pekah of Israel and Rezin of Syria formed an alliance against Judah—an event known as the Syro-Ephraimitic War. The prophet Isaiah references this conflict in Isaiah 7:1, mentioning "Pekah son of Remaliah" by name.
Understanding how to pronounce Remaliah correctly becomes important when reading these passages aloud or teaching Bible studies, as the name appears multiple times in the historical narrative of Israel's divided kingdom.
Why This Name Matters for Bible Readers
While Remaliah himself doesn't appear as a major character, his name carries theological weight. The emphasis on "exaltation of the Lord" suggests that even during Israel's political instability and warfare, God's sovereignty remained paramount. Pronouncing Remaliah accurately helps readers connect the linguistic meaning to the historical context—a period when Israel's trust in God's exaltation was severely tested.
For pastors and teachers, pronouncing Remaliah correctly enhances credibility and helps congregations grasp the deeper significance of names in biblical genealogy. Every name in Scripture carries intentional meaning, and Remaliah is no exception. Its presence in the historical books reminds us that God's exaltation continues even through human political turmoil and conflict.