Accos is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and is recognized in the canon of the Eastern Orthodox Church. However, it is not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament. The name "Accos" appears in 1 Esdras 5:31, where he is listed among the leaders of the families who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia.

Biblical Context

In 1 Esdras 5:31, Accos is mentioned as one of the "sons of the servants of Solomon." The passage reads: "The sons of the servants of Solomon: the sons of Assaphioth, the sons of Peruda, the sons of Jaalah, the sons of Accos, the sons of Sisera, the sons of Thamah" . This list is part of a larger genealogical record that details the various groups and families who participated in the return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple.

Historical and Theological Significance

From a conservative Christian viewpoint, the mention of Accos, though brief, underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people after the Babylonian exile. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple were significant events in Jewish history, symbolizing God's faithfulness and the re-establishment of proper worship according to the Law of Moses.

The inclusion of the "sons of the servants of Solomon" highlights the diverse composition of the returning exiles. These individuals, though not of the main Israelite tribes, were still integral to the community and its mission to restore the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's inclusive plan for His people, where all who are faithful, regardless of their background, have a role in His redemptive history.

Linguistic and Textual Considerations

The name "Accos" is of uncertain etymology, and its occurrence is limited to this passage in 1 Esdras. The text of 1 Esdras itself is a Greek version of the events recorded in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah, with some variations and additional details. While 1 Esdras is not considered canonical in the Protestant tradition, it provides valuable historical insights and complements the understanding of the post-exilic period.

Relevance for Today

For conservative Christians, the account of the return from exile, including figures like Accos, serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about restoration and renewal. It encourages believers to trust in God's promises and to recognize their own place in His ongoing work in the world. The account of Accos and others who returned to Jerusalem is a testament to the faithfulness and perseverance required to fulfill God's purposes, a call that remains relevant for Christians today.ACCOS

ak'-os (Hakchos): The grandfather of Eupolemus, whom Judas Maccabeus sent with others to Rome in 161 B.C., to negotiate a "league of amity and confederacy" (1 Maccabees 8:17). The name occurs In the Old Testament as Hakkoz (haqqots), who was a priest in the reign of David (1 Chronicles 24:10).

Accos
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ACCOS. ak'-os (Hakchos): The grandfather
of Eupolemus, whom Judas Maccabeus sent with others to ...
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Accordingly (34 Occurrences)

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Eupolemus
... u-pol'-e-mus (Eupolemos): Son of John, the son of Accos = Hakkoz (Akkos; Nehemiah
3:4, 21, etc.); was one of the two deputies sent by Judas Maccabeus (APC 1Mac ...
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Akkos
... AKKOS. ak'-os (Akbos in 1 Esdras 5:38; the King James Version Accos, which see):
The Old Testament equivalent (1 Chronicles 24:10 Ezra 2:61 Nehemiah 3:4, 21) is ...
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Accosted (1 Occurrence)

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