Ahi'ma-az is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, known primarily for his role as a messenger and his familial connections to significant priestly and royal figures. His name, Ahi'ma-az, is often interpreted to mean "My Brother is Wrath" or "Brother of Anger," reflecting the Hebrew roots of the name.

Lineage and Family Connections

Ahi'ma-az was the son of Zadok, the high priest during the reign of King David. Zadok was a prominent priestly figure who remained loyal to David during Absalom's rebellion, and his lineage continued to hold significant religious authority in Israel. Ahi'ma-az's familial ties placed him in a position of influence and responsibility within the kingdom.

Role as a Messenger

Ahi'ma-az is most notably recognized for his role as a swift and reliable messenger during the turbulent period of Absalom's rebellion against King David. In 2 Samuel 15-18, Ahi'ma-az, along with Jonathan, the son of Abiathar the priest, served as a courier for David. They were tasked with relaying critical information about Absalom's plans and movements, which was vital for David's strategic decisions during the conflict.

In 2 Samuel 18:19-33, Ahi'ma-az is depicted as eager to deliver news of the battle to King David. Despite Joab's initial reluctance to send him, Ahi'ma-az insisted on carrying the message. He outran the Cushite messenger and reached David first, delivering the news of victory but withholding the details of Absalom's death. His approach demonstrated both his loyalty to David and his sensitivity to the king's emotional state.

Priestly Duties and Legacy

While Ahi'ma-az is primarily noted for his role as a messenger, his position as the son of Zadok suggests that he was also involved in priestly duties. The priesthood during this period was integral to the religious and political life of Israel, and Ahi'ma-az's family was central to maintaining the religious traditions and practices of the time.

Ahi'ma-az's legacy is intertwined with the stability and continuity of the Davidic kingdom. His actions during Absalom's rebellion contributed to the preservation of David's reign, and his family's priestly lineage continued to play a significant role in the religious life of Israel.

Biblical References

· 2 Samuel 15:27: "The king also said to Zadok the priest, 'Are you not a seer? Return to the city in peace with your son Ahi'ma-az and Jonathan son of Abiathar. You and Abiathar take your two sons with you.'"
· 2 Samuel 18:19-23: Ahi'ma-az insists on running to bring news to King David, demonstrating his dedication and eagerness to serve.
· 2 Samuel 18:27: "The watchman said, 'It seems to me that the first one runs like Ahi'ma-az son of Zadok.' 'He is a good man,' said the king, 'and he comes with good news.'"

Ahi'ma-az's account is a testament to the importance of loyalty, service, and the fulfillment of one's duties within the context of God's unfolding plan for Israel. His actions, recorded in the historical narrative of the Old Testament, highlight the critical role of communication and faithfulness in times of national crisis.Ahi'ma-az (7 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 18:19
Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok: 'Let me now run, and bear the king tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.'
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:22
Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab: 'But come what may, let me, I pray thee, also run after the Cushite.' And Joab said: 'Wherefore wilt thou run, my son, seeing that thou wilt have no reward for the tidings?'
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:23
But come what may, said he, I will run.' And he said unto him: 'Run.' Then Ahimaaz ran by the way of the Plain, and overran the Cushite.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:27
And the watchman said: 'I think the running of the foremost is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.' And the king said: 'He is a good man, and cometh with good tidings.'
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:28
And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king: 'All is well.' And he bowed down before the king with his face to the earth, and said: 'Blessed be the LORD thy God, who hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand against my lord the king.'
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:29
And the king said: 'Is it well with the young man Absalom?' And Ahimaaz answered: 'When Joab sent the king's servant, and me thy servant, I saw a great tumult, but I knew not what it was.'
(See RSV)

1 Kings 4:15
Ahimaaz, in Naphtali; he also took Basemath the daughter of Solomon to wife;
(See RSV)

Ahi'ma-az (7 Occurrences)
Ahi'ma-az. Ahimaaz, Ahi'ma-az. Ahim'a-az . Multi-Version Concordance
Ahi'ma-az (7 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 18:19 Then said Ahimaaz ...
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Ahim'a-az (8 Occurrences)
Ahim'a-az. Ahi'ma-az, Ahim'a-az. Ahiman . Multi-Version Concordance
Ahim'a-az (8 Occurrences). ... (See RSV). Ahi'ma-az, Ahim'a-az. Ahiman . Reference
/a/ahim'a-az.htm - 8k

Ahimaaz (15 Occurrences)

/a/ahimaaz.htm - 14k

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