Malach was the son of Marach, Lord of the Third House of the Edain when they crossed the Blue Mountains into Beleriand during the First Age. Malach dwelt at first with his people at Estolad, but later journeyed north and entered the service of Fingon son of Fingolfin in Hithlum.

While living among the Noldor, Malach was given the name Aradan, meaning 'noble man' in the High Elven tongue. When he had dwelt in Hithlum 14 years, he returned to Estolad upon the death of his father Marach. He soon led a part of the Third House back north to Hithlum. This began the migration of the People of Marach (Hador) to the northern lands held by the House of Fingolfin.

Malach was the father of Magor, his heir, as well as Adanel, who was counted among the Wise of the Edain. He was the great-grandfather of Hador Lórindol, whom the Third House is often named for.