messenger
ma.le.akh denotes a dispatched representative, usually a human envoy but also a divine agent who speaks, guides, or acts.
The term most often identifies human representatives sent to carry words, summonses, reports, or diplomatic communications. It also identifies agents associated with the LORD or God who speak, guide, appear, or carry out destructive action; a few comparisons use such an agent as a standard for discernment or favor.
Senses in use
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Human envoys sent with words or tasks · dominant
Plural forms identify people dispatched between rulers, communities, or individuals. In 1 Kings 20:9 the construct plural occurs in a command addressed to Ben-hadad's envoys, who then go and bring back a report; in 1 Samuel 11:4 the APB renders that the envoys came to Gibeah and spoke the reported words to the people. Other instances concern sending workers or representatives for building, comfort, summonses, or instructions.
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Divine agent acting or speaking · common
Construct singular forms in phrases identifying the agent with the LORD or God mark an agent who speaks or acts under that association. In Exodus 14:19 the APB renders the agent of God moving from before Israel's camp to behind it; in 1 Chronicles 21:15 the singular forms occur as God sends the agent to Jerusalem, addresses the destroying agent, and locates the agent at Ornan's threshing floor. In 2 Kings 19:35, the agent associated with the LORD goes out and strikes the Assyrian camp.
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Comparison to a divine agent · rare
The term can occur in a comparison rather than naming an envoy's mission. In 1 Samuel 29:9, Achish says David is pleasing in his eyes like an agent of God; in 2 Samuel 14:17 and 2 Samuel 14:20, the comparison concerns the king's discernment and wisdom.
In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB commonly renders human instances as “messenger” or “messengers,” especially where people are sent and return with words. In verses concerning agents of the LORD or God, it also uses “angel”; These English choices are treated as presentations of the clauses rather than separate definitions.