Topical Encyclopedia Ahiah, also spelled Ahijah, is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, referring to different individuals. The name Ahijah means "brother of Yahweh" or "Yahweh is my brother," reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names.1. Ahijah the Shilonite: One of the most notable figures named Ahijah is the prophet from Shiloh during the reign of Solomon and Jeroboam. Ahijah played a significant role in the division of the united monarchy of Israel. In 1 Kings 11:29-31, Ahijah meets Jeroboam and prophesies that God will tear the kingdom from Solomon and give ten tribes to Jeroboam: "At that time, when Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem, the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him on the road, wearing a new cloak. And the two of them were alone in the open field. And Ahijah took hold of the new cloak he was wearing, tore it into twelve pieces, and said to Jeroboam, 'Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: "Behold, I will tear the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon and give you ten tribes."'" Ahijah's prophecy was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, leading to the division of the kingdom after Solomon's death. Later, Ahijah also prophesied the downfall of Jeroboam's house due to his idolatry and disobedience to God (1 Kings 14:6-16). 2. Ahijah, Son of Ahitub: Another Ahijah mentioned in the Bible is a priest, the son of Ahitub, and a descendant of Eli. He served during the time of King Saul. In 1 Samuel 14:3, he is described as wearing an ephod, indicating his priestly role: "Ahijah son of Ahitub, the brother of Ichabod, son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest of the LORD in Shiloh, was wearing an ephod." This Ahijah was present during the battle against the Philistines when Jonathan, Saul's son, initiated a surprise attack. 3. Ahijah, a Levite: In 1 Chronicles 26:20, Ahijah is mentioned as a Levite who had charge of the treasuries of the house of God: "Now their fellow Levites were in charge of the treasuries of the house of God and the treasuries of the dedicated things." This role was crucial for the administration and maintenance of the temple's resources. 4. Ahijah, Father of Baasha: In 1 Kings 15:27, Ahijah is noted as the father of Baasha, who conspired against Nadab, the son of Jeroboam, and became king of Israel: "Then Baasha son of Ahijah of the house of Issachar conspired against him, and Baasha struck him down at Gibbethon of the Philistines while Nadab and all Israel were besieging the city." The various individuals named Ahijah in the Bible highlight the commonality of the name and its significance in different contexts, from prophetic ministry to priestly service and royal lineage. Each Ahijah played a distinct role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history, reflecting the diverse ways God interacted with His people through prophets, priests, and leaders. Smith's Bible Dictionary Ahiah or Ahijah(friend of Jehovah).
Strong's Hebrew 281. Achiyyah -- "brother of Yah," an Israelite name... Word Origin from ach and Yah Definition "brother of Yah," an Isr. name NASB Word Usage Ahiah (1), Ahijah (22). Ahiah, Ahijah. Or ... /hebrew/281.htm - 6k Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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