Topical Encyclopedia Ahitob is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the genealogies and priestly lineages. His name, meaning "brother of goodness" or "my brother is goodness," reflects the Hebrew tradition of names bearing significant meanings. Ahitob is associated with the priestly lineage, which plays a crucial role in the religious and spiritual leadership of Israel.Genealogical Context Ahitob is identified as a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. This connection places Ahitob within the Levitical priesthood, a tribe set apart for religious duties and the service of the Tabernacle, and later, the Temple in Jerusalem. The genealogical records in the Bible emphasize the importance of lineage in maintaining the purity and continuity of the priestly office. Biblical References 1. 1 Samuel 14:3 · Ahitob is mentioned as the father of Ahijah, who served as a priest during the reign of King Saul. The verse states: "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 reference situates Ahitob within the context of the priestly service during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. 2. 1 Samuel 22:9-12 · Ahitob is also noted as the father of Ahimelech, another priest who served during King Saul's reign. Ahimelech's interaction with David, as recorded in this passage, highlights the complex relationship between the priesthood and the monarchy. The text reads: "Then Doeg the Edomite, who was standing with Saul’s officials, said, 'I saw the son of Jesse come to Ahimelech son of Ahitub at Nob.'" 3. 1 Chronicles 6:7-8 · The genealogical records in Chronicles provide further details about Ahitob's lineage: "Meraioth was the father of Amariah, Amariah was the father of Ahitub, Ahitub was the father of Zadok." This passage underscores Ahitob's place in the line leading to Zadok, a significant priest during the reign of King David and Solomon. Priestly Lineage and Legacy Ahitob's descendants played pivotal roles in the religious life of Israel. His son Ahimelech served as a priest at Nob, where he provided assistance to David, an act that led to a tragic massacre ordered by King Saul. This event is a stark reminder of the tensions between the prophetic and kingly offices and the priesthood. Ahitob's lineage continued through his grandson Zadok, who became a prominent priest during the united monarchy of Israel. Zadok's loyalty to King David and his support during Absalom's rebellion solidified his family's standing in the priestly hierarchy. Under Solomon, Zadok was appointed as the sole high priest, further establishing the Ahitob line's influence in Israel's religious affairs. Theological Significance The mention of Ahitob and his descendants in the biblical narrative highlights the enduring importance of the priestly office in Israel's covenant relationship with God. The priests served as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of worship. Ahitob's lineage, particularly through Zadok, represents the continuity of this sacred duty and the divine favor bestowed upon the house of Aaron. Ahitob's account, though not extensively detailed in the Scriptures, is integral to understanding the broader narrative of Israel's history and the development of its religious institutions. His legacy, through his descendants, underscores the vital role of the priesthood in guiding the spiritual life of the nation and upholding the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AHITOBa-hi'-tob (Achitob; the King James Version Achitob): One of the ancestors of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2; 2 Esdras 1:1). Compare AHITUB, 3 (Ezra 7:2 et al.). Thesaurus Ahitob...AHITOB. a-hi'-tob (Achitob; the King James Version Achitob): One of the ancestors of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2; 2 Esdras 1:1). Compare AHITUB, 3 (Ezra 7:2 et al.). ... /a/ahitob.htm - 6k Ahitub (16 Occurrences) Achitob Ahithophel's (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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