Achitob
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Achitob, also spelled Ahitub, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the genealogies and priestly lineages of Israel. The name Achitob means "brother of goodness" or "my brother is good," reflecting the Hebrew roots of the name. Achitob is a significant figure in the priestly lineage, serving as a link in the chain of high priests that played a crucial role in the religious life of ancient Israel.

Genealogy and Lineage

Achitob is identified as a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, who was the first high priest of Israel. The lineage of Achitob is outlined in several passages, emphasizing his role in the priestly succession. In 1 Samuel 14:3, Achitob is mentioned as the father of Ahijah, who served as a priest during the reign of King Saul: "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."

Achitob is also noted as the father of Ahimelech, another significant priestly figure. In 1 Samuel 22:9-12, Doeg the Edomite reports to King Saul about Ahimelech, the son of Ahitub, who had assisted David: "Then answered Doeg the Edomite, who was set over the servants of Saul, and said, 'I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub.'"

Role in the Priesthood

Achitob's descendants played pivotal roles in the religious and political life of Israel. His son Ahimelech served as a priest in the city of Nob, where he provided assistance to David during his flight from Saul. This act of kindness, however, led to a tragic outcome, as Saul ordered the massacre of the priests of Nob, including Ahimelech, as recounted in 1 Samuel 22:16-19.

Another descendant of Achitob, Abiathar, survived the massacre and became a loyal supporter of David. Abiathar served as a priest during David's reign and was instrumental in the religious activities of the kingdom. His connection to Achitob underscores the enduring influence of this priestly family in the history of Israel.

Historical and Theological Significance

The lineage of Achitob highlights the continuity and importance of the priestly office in Israel. The priests were responsible for maintaining the sacrificial system, teaching the Law, and serving as intermediaries between God and the people. Achitob's descendants, through their service and sometimes their suffering, exemplified the challenges and responsibilities of the priesthood.

The narrative of Achitob and his family also reflects the broader themes of loyalty, faithfulness, and the consequences of political and religious decisions in the history of Israel. The priests, as descendants of Aaron, were expected to uphold the covenantal relationship between God and His people, a task that required both spiritual and moral integrity.

In summary, Achitob stands as a significant figure within the priestly lineage of Israel, with his descendants playing crucial roles in the unfolding account of God's people. His legacy is preserved in the biblical record, serving as a testament to the enduring importance of the priestly office in the life and faith of Israel.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ACHITOB

ak'-i-tob: Same as Ahitob. Used in 1 Esdras 8:2; compare 2 Esdras 1:1 the King James Version. See AHITUB 3.

Thesaurus
Achitob
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ACHITOB. ak'-i-tob: Same as Ahitob. Used in 1 Esdras
8:2; compare 2 Esdras 1:1 the King James Version. See AHITUB 3. ...
/a/achitob.htm - 6k

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

A'chish (17 Occurrences)
A'chish. Achish, A'chish. Achitob . Multi-Version Concordance A'chish (17
Occurrences). ... Achish, A'chish. Achitob . Reference Bible.
/a/a'chish.htm - 11k

Achmetha (1 Occurrence)

/a/achmetha.htm - 10k

Ahitub (16 Occurrences)
... 2 and 2 Esdras 1:1, and the name occurs in Judith 8:1. In these places it appears
in the English versions in the various forms: Ahitub, Ahitob, Achitob, Acitho ...
/a/ahitub.htm - 14k

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