Eliakim: Son of Abiud
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Eliakim, a figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, is noted in the Gospel of Matthew as a descendant of King David. His name, meaning "God will establish" in Hebrew, reflects a common theme in biblical nomenclature, where names often signify divine purpose or promise.

Genealogical Context

Eliakim is listed in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, which traces the legal lineage of Jesus through Joseph, His earthly father. This genealogy is significant for establishing Jesus' rightful claim to the throne of David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage. In Matthew 1:13, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud, Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor."

Historical and Theological Significance

While the Bible does not provide detailed accounts of Eliakim's life or deeds, his inclusion in the genealogy underscores the continuity of God's covenantal promises through generations. The genealogical record in Matthew serves to affirm Jesus' messianic credentials, linking Him to the patriarchs and the Davidic line. This connection is crucial for understanding the fulfillment of prophecies such as those found in 2 Samuel 7:12-16 and Isaiah 11:1, which speak of a ruler arising from David's lineage.

Symbolic Representation

Eliakim's name, "God will establish," can be seen as emblematic of the divine plan unfolding through history. Each name in the genealogy, including Eliakim's, represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive work, culminating in the birth of Jesus Christ. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in bringing about His purposes through human history.

Cultural and Religious Context

In the Jewish tradition, genealogies were vital for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and religious duties. For the early Christian community, the genealogy in Matthew served to connect Jesus with Jewish heritage and affirm His role as the promised Messiah. Eliakim's place in this lineage highlights the continuity of God's work from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Conclusion

Eliakim, son of Abiud, though a relatively obscure figure, plays a crucial role in the biblical narrative by being part of the genealogy that establishes Jesus' messianic lineage. His mention in the Gospel of Matthew serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history.
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Matthew 1:13
And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor;
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Greek
1662. Eliakim -- Eliakim, two Israelites
... Eliakim Phonetic Spelling: (el-ee-ak-ime') Short Definition: Eliakim Definition:
Eliakim, son of Abiud and father of Azor; son of Melea and father of Jonam. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1662.htm - 6k

10. Abioud -- Abiud, Abihud, the son of Zerubbabel
... Noun, Indeclinable Transliteration: Abioud Phonetic Spelling: (ab-ee-ood') Short
Definition: Abiud Definition: Abiud, son of Zerubbabel and father of Eliakim. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/10.htm - 6k

Library

Matthew's Genealogy of Jesus Christ
... And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor ... So, then,
whoever drew up this genealogy knew that Jesus was not Joseph's son. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture a/matthews genealogy of jesus christ.htm

Genealogy of Jesus According to Matthew.
... no one twice] begat Shealtiel [Luke calls Shealtiel the son of Neri ... and Zechariah];
13 and Zerubbabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/iii genealogy of jesus according.htm

Of the Agreement of the Evangelists Matthew and Luke in the ...
... Salathiel begat Zorobabel; and Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and
Eliakim begat Azor ... forefathers, Christ is found to be the Son of David ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of the new testament/sermon i of the agreement.htm

Resources
Who was King Jehoiakim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What are the keys of death (Revelation 1:18)? | GotQuestions.org

Who was King Jehoiachin in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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Eliakim: Original Name of Jehoiakim, King of Judah
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