Aphiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. His name appears in the context of the lineage of Saul, the first king of Israel. The name "Aphiah" is derived from a Hebrew root that may mean "refreshing" or "bubbling," though the exact etymology is not definitively established.

Biblical Reference:

Aphiah is mentioned in 1 Samuel 9:1, which provides a brief genealogical background of Saul:

"There was a man of Benjamin named Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite of standing." (1 Samuel 9:1)

This verse situates Aphiah within the ancestry of Saul, indicating that he was a Benjamite, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. The passage highlights the noble standing of Saul's family, suggesting that Aphiah was part of a lineage of some repute and influence within the tribe.

Genealogical Significance:

Aphiah's mention in the genealogy of Saul underscores the importance of familial lineage in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of leadership and kingship. The tribe of Benjamin, though small, played a significant role in the history of Israel, and the genealogy provided in 1 Samuel 9:1 serves to establish Saul's credentials and legitimacy as a leader chosen by God.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social status. The inclusion of Aphiah in Saul's genealogy reflects the broader biblical theme of God's providence and sovereignty in selecting leaders for His people. The tribe of Benjamin, despite its size, was strategically located and had a history of producing significant leaders, as seen in the narrative of the Judges and the early monarchy.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Aphiah in the lineage of Saul can be seen as part of God's unfolding plan for Israel. Saul's anointing as king marked a pivotal moment in Israel's history, transitioning from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. The genealogy serves as a reminder of God's involvement in the affairs of His people, orchestrating events and lineages to fulfill His purposes.

Conclusion:

While Aphiah himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogy of Saul highlights the importance of family heritage and divine selection in the history of Israel. His mention serves as a testament to the intricate tapestry of relationships and lineages through which God worked to establish His kingdom on earth.Aphiah

speaking, blowing

Aphiah

(refreshed), one of the fore-fathers of King Saul. (1 Samuel 9:1)

APHIAH

a-fi'-a ('aphiach): A Benjaminate and an ancestor of King Saul (1 Samuel 9:1).

647. Aphiyach -- perhaps helpless
... 646, 647. Aphiyach. 647a . perhaps helpless. Transliteration: Aphiyach Phonetic
Spelling: (af-ee'-akh) Short Definition: Aphiah. Aphiah ...
/hebrew/647.htm - 5k

647b. Aphiach -- an Israelite
... an Israelite. Transliteration: Aphiach Short Definition: Aphiah. Word Origin of
uncertain derivation Definition an Isr. NASB Word Usage Aphiah (1). ...
/hebrew/647b.htm - 5k

Aphiah (1 Occurrence)
...APHIAH. a-fi'-a ('aphiach): A Benjaminate and an ancestor of King Saul (1 Samuel
9:1). Multi-Version Concordance Aphiah (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/aphiah.htm - 7k

Aphi'ah (1 Occurrence)
Aphi'ah. Aphiah, Aphi'ah. Aphik . Multi-Version Concordance Aphi'ah (1 Occurrence). ...
(See RSV). Aphiah, Aphi'ah. Aphik . Reference Bible.
/a/aphi'ah.htm - 6k

Valor (45 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/v/valor.htm - 21k

Valour (66 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/v/valour.htm - 26k

Zeror (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/z/zeror.htm - 7k

Kish (18 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/k/kish.htm - 15k

Beco'rath (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/b/beco'rath.htm - 6k

Benjamite (15 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/b/benjamite.htm - 11k

Becorath (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/b/becorath.htm - 7k

Benjaminite (9 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:1 And there was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel,
the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a ...
/b/benjaminite.htm - 9k

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