Topical Encyclopedia Psaltiel, also known as Shealtiel, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old and New Testaments. He is recognized as an important link in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. His name, which means "I have asked of God" or "God is my request," reflects a deep sense of divine petition and reliance on God's providence.Genealogical Significance Psaltiel is identified as the son of Jeconiah (also known as Jehoiachin), the king of Judah, during the time of the Babylonian exile. This connection is significant as it ties Psaltiel to the royal Davidic line, fulfilling the prophecies concerning the Messiah's descent from King David. In the Gospel of Matthew, Psaltiel is listed in the genealogy of Jesus: "After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel" (Matthew 1:12). Similarly, the Gospel of Luke traces Jesus' lineage through Psaltiel: "the son of Neri, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Zerubbabel" (Luke 3:27). Role in Post-Exilic Period Psaltiel's significance extends beyond his genealogical role. He is the father of Zerubbabel, a key leader in the Jewish community during the return from Babylonian exile. Zerubbabel played a crucial role in the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, an event that marked a significant moment in Jewish history and religious life. Although Psaltiel himself is not directly mentioned in the accounts of the return and rebuilding, his position as Zerubbabel's father places him within this pivotal historical context. Theological Implications The inclusion of Psaltiel in the genealogies of Jesus underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to David and the continuity of the Davidic line despite the challenges of exile and displacement. His presence in the genealogical records serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving the line through which the Messiah would come. This continuity is a central theme in the biblical narrative, highlighting the divine orchestration of history to bring about redemption through Jesus Christ. Textual Considerations There is some textual variation regarding Psaltiel's parentage. While Matthew identifies him as the son of Jeconiah, Luke presents him as the son of Neri. This discrepancy has been the subject of scholarly discussion, with various explanations proposed, including the possibility of levirate marriage or adoption. Despite these differences, the theological emphasis remains on the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises. In summary, Psaltiel stands as a significant figure within the biblical genealogies, representing both the continuity of the Davidic line and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. His legacy is intricately connected to the themes of exile, restoration, and divine faithfulness. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PSALTIELsol'-ti-el: Syriac and the Revised Version margin = "Phaltiel" of 2 Esdras 5:16. Thesaurus Psaltiel... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PSALTIEL. sol'-ti-el: Syriac and the Revised Version margin = "Phaltiel" of 2 Esdras 5:16. ... /p/psaltiel.htm - 6k Psaltery (17 Occurrences) Pseudomatthew Palti (2 Occurrences) Phaltiel (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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