Malachi is a name of Hebrew origin, from the Hebrew מַלְאָכִי (Malʾaḵi), meaning “my messenger” or “my angel.” It is derived from מַלְאָךְ (malʾaḵ), meaning “messenger, angel.” This name is famously associated with one of the twelve minor prophets of the Old Testament, the author of the Book of Malachi. However, the name only appears once at the start of the book, leading scholars to debate whether it is a proper name or a title meaning “my messenger.” Etymology and Identity The Book of Malachi is the last book of the Nevi'im (Prophets) section of the Tanakh. According to the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia, the prophet Malachi is often identified with Ezra the scribe in Jewish tradition. The text likely originated in the Persian period, with some material from around 500 BCE and later redactions into the Hellenistic period. The uncertainty around the name’s status has led many to treat Malachi as a pseudonym, reflecting the prophetic message itself rather than the historical figure. Historical and Cultural Use In England, the name Malachi came into use after the Protestant Reformation, when biblical names from the Old Testament became popular. Variants of the name include Malakai in English and Tongan, Malachias in Biblical Latin and Greek, and Malaquías in Biblical Spanish, among others. Malachi is still used today in English-speaking and Hebrew-speaking communities. Meaning: My messenger, my angel Origin: Hebrew Type: First name Usage Regions: Hebrew, English, biblical contexts