Topical Bible: Asaph: Father of Joah

◄ Asaph: Father of Joah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Asaph, a lesser-known biblical figure, is primarily recognized as the father of Joah, who served as a recorder during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. The name Asaph appears in the context of a significant historical event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 2 Kings and the book of Isaiah.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 18:18 · "They called for the king, but Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder, went out to them."

2. Isaiah 36:3 · "Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder, went out to him."

In these passages, Asaph is mentioned in the context of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. His son, Joah, is identified as a recorder, a position of significant responsibility and trust within the royal court. The role of a recorder involved maintaining official records, chronicling events, and possibly advising the king on matters of state.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The mention of Asaph as the father of Joah situates him within the administrative framework of the Kingdom of Judah during a tumultuous period. The Assyrian Empire, under King Sennacherib, posed a formidable threat to the smaller kingdoms of the Near East, including Judah. The presence of Joah, the son of Asaph, alongside other high-ranking officials like Eliakim and Shebna, underscores the importance of Asaph's lineage in the political and administrative affairs of the kingdom.

Theological Significance:

While Asaph himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his mention highlights the importance of familial lineage and the transmission of roles and responsibilities across generations. In the biblical worldview, the faithfulness and integrity of individuals in positions of authority are crucial for the well-being and spiritual health of the nation. Asaph's legacy, through his son Joah, contributes to the broader narrative of God's providence and protection over Judah during a time of crisis.

Connection to the Psalms:

It is important to distinguish this Asaph from the more prominent Asaph, a Levite musician and seer in the time of King David, who is credited with several Psalms. The Asaph mentioned as the father of Joah is not directly associated with the musical and liturgical contributions of the Asaphite guild. However, the recurrence of the name "Asaph" in different contexts within the Bible may reflect the enduring legacy and honor associated with the name, particularly in the service of God and the king.

In summary, Asaph, as the father of Joah, is a figure whose mention in the biblical text serves to highlight the continuity of faithful service within the royal administration of Judah. His legacy, though brief in the scriptural record, is intertwined with the pivotal events of King Hezekiah's reign and the divine deliverance of Jerusalem from Assyrian aggression.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 18:18
And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder.
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Isaiah 36:3,22
Then came forth to him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, which was over the house, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder.
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