Topical Encyclopedia Ahuzzath is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is noted as an associate of Abimelech, the king of Gerar, during the time of the patriarch Isaac. The name "Ahuzzath" is believed to mean "possession" or "possession of land," which may reflect his role or status within the Philistine society.Biblical Reference: Ahuzzath is mentioned in Genesis 26:26-31, where he appears in the narrative concerning Isaac's interactions with the Philistines. The passage describes a diplomatic encounter between Isaac and Abimelech, the king of Gerar. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following account: "Meanwhile, Abimelech came to him from Gerar, with Ahuzzath his adviser and Phicol the commander of his army. Isaac asked them, 'Why have you come to me, since you were hostile to me and sent me away?' They replied, 'We can plainly see that the LORD has been with you, and we said, "There ought to be a sworn agreement between us—between us and you. Let us make a covenant with you that you will do us no harm, just as we have not harmed you, but have always treated you well and sent you away in peace. And now you are blessed by the LORD."' So Isaac prepared a feast for them, and they ate and drank. Early the next morning, the men swore an oath to each other. Then Isaac sent them on their way, and they left him in peace." (Genesis 26:26-31) Role and Significance: Ahuzzath is described as an "adviser" to King Abimelech, indicating a position of influence and responsibility within the Philistine court. His presence alongside Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of the army, suggests that he was part of a delegation sent to negotiate peace and establish a covenant with Isaac. This diplomatic mission underscores the recognition of Isaac's growing power and the acknowledgment of God's blessing upon him. The inclusion of Ahuzzath in this narrative highlights the importance of alliances and treaties in the ancient Near Eastern context. The peaceful resolution between Isaac and the Philistines, facilitated by figures like Ahuzzath, reflects the broader theme of God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to the patriarchs. Cultural and Historical Context: The mention of Ahuzzath and his role as an adviser provides insight into the political structures of the time. Advisers were crucial in ancient monarchies, offering counsel and aiding in the administration of the kingdom. Ahuzzath's involvement in the covenant-making process with Isaac illustrates the diplomatic practices of the era, where personal relationships and formal agreements were essential for maintaining peace and stability. In summary, Ahuzzath's brief appearance in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the complex interactions between the patriarchs and the surrounding nations. His role as an adviser to Abimelech during a pivotal moment in Isaac's life emphasizes the significance of divine favor and the establishment of peaceful relations in accordance with God's overarching plan for His people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Ahuzzath(possesions) one of the friends of the Philistine king Abimelech, who accompanied him at his interview with Isaac. (Genesis 26:26) (B.C. about 1877.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AHUZZATHa-huz'-ath ('achuzzath, "possession"): A "friend" perhaps a minister, of Abimelech, king of Gerar. He together with Phicol, commander of the army, accompanied their sovereign to Beersheba to make a covenant with Isaac (Genesis 26:26). The termination "-ath" reminds us of Philistine proper names, such as Gath, Goliath, etc. Compare Genubath (1 Kings 11:20). Strong's Hebrew 276. Achuzzath -- "possession," a friend of Abimelech... Achuzzath. 277 . "possession," a friend of Abimelech. Transliteration: Achuzzath Phonetic Spelling: (akh-ooz-zath') Short Definition: Ahuzzath. ... Ahuzzath. ... /hebrew/276.htm - 6k Library Chapter xxvi Chapter xlix Thesaurus Ahuzzath (1 Occurrence)...AHUZZATH. a-huz'-ath ('achuzzath, "possession"): A "friend" perhaps a minister, of Abimelech, king of Gerar. ... Multi-Version Concordance Ahuzzath (1 Occurrence). ... /a/ahuzzath.htm - 7k Ahuz'zath (1 Occurrence) Forces (123 Occurrences) Personal (15 Occurrences) Phicol (3 Occurrences) Phichol (3 Occurrences) Abim'elech (58 Occurrences) Ahuz'zam (1 Occurrence) Adviser (3 Occurrences) Gerar (10 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Ahuzzath (1 Occurrence)Genesis 26:26 Subtopics Ahuzzath: A Friend of Abimelech Related Terms |
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