Ahim'a-az is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, known primarily for his role as a messenger and his familial connections to significant priestly and royal figures. His name, Ahim'a-az, is often interpreted to mean "My Brother is Wrath" or "Brother of Anger," reflecting the Hebrew roots of the name.

Lineage and Family Connections

Ahim'a-az was the son of Zadok, the high priest during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. Zadok was a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and played a crucial role in the religious and political life of Israel. Ahim'a-az's lineage placed him within the priestly class, and he was likely involved in the religious duties and responsibilities that accompanied this status.

Role as a Messenger

Ahim'a-az is most prominently featured in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against King David. During this tumultuous period, Ahim'a-az served as a loyal messenger for King David. His role is detailed in 2 Samuel 15-18, where he is depicted as a swift and reliable courier.

In 2 Samuel 15:27, David instructs Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, to return to Jerusalem with the Ark of the Covenant, and he specifically mentions Ahim'a-az: "The king also said to Zadok the priest, 'Are you not a seer? Return to the city in peace—you with your son Ahim'a-az and Abiathar with his son Jonathan.'" This indicates the trust David placed in Ahim'a-az and his family.

Ahim'a-az's most notable mission occurs after the battle in the forest of Ephraim, where Absalom is defeated. In 2 Samuel 18:19-33, Ahim'a-az volunteers to bring the news of Absalom's defeat to King David. Despite Joab's initial reluctance to send him, Ahim'a-az insists and outruns the Cushite messenger to deliver the tidings. His eagerness and speed are highlighted in 2 Samuel 18:23: "He replied, 'Come what may, I want to run.' So Joab said, 'Run!' Then Ahim'a-az ran by way of the plain and outran the Cushite."

Upon reaching David, Ahim'a-az delivers the news of victory but tactfully avoids directly informing the king of Absalom's death, demonstrating both his loyalty and sensitivity to David's emotions.

Legacy and Significance

Ahim'a-az's actions during Absalom's rebellion underscore his loyalty to King David and his role as a trusted messenger. His willingness to serve and his swift delivery of news highlight the importance of communication and loyalty in the biblical narrative. Ahim'a-az's account also reflects the broader themes of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's will through human agents.

While Ahim'a-az does not appear frequently in the biblical text, his contributions during a critical moment in Israel's history are remembered as part of the larger narrative of David's reign and the challenges he faced. His account serves as a testament to the faithfulness and dedication expected of those who serve God's chosen leaders.Ahim'a-az (8 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 14:50
and the name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam the daughter of Ahimaaz; and the name of the captain of his host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle.
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2 Samuel 15:27
The king said also unto Zadok the priest: 'Seest thou? return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.
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2 Samuel 15:36
Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok's son, and Jonathan Abiathar's son; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye shall hear.'
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2 Samuel 17:17
Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; and a maid-servant used to go and tell them; and they went and told king David; for they might not be seen to come into the city.
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2 Samuel 17:20
And Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house; and they said: 'Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?' And the woman said unto them: 'They are gone over the brook of water.' And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem.
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1 Chronicles 6:8
and Ahitub begot Zadok, and Zadok begot Ahimaaz;
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1 Chronicles 6:9
and Ahimaaz begot Azariah, and Azariah begot Johanan;
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1 Chronicles 6:53
Zadok his son, Ahimaaz his son.
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Ahim'a-az (8 Occurrences)
Ahim'a-az. Ahi'ma-az, Ahim'a-az. Ahiman . Multi-Version Concordance
Ahim'a-az (8 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 14:50 and the name of Saul's ...
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Ahi'ma-az (7 Occurrences)
Ahi'ma-az. Ahimaaz, Ahi'ma-az. Ahim'a-az . Multi-Version Concordance
Ahi'ma-az (7 Occurrences). ... Ahimaaz, Ahi'ma-az. Ahim'a-az . Reference Bible.
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Ahiman (4 Occurrences)

/a/ahiman.htm - 10k

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