Alnathan is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Book of Jeremiah. The name Alnathan, sometimes rendered as Elnathan in various translations, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "God has given." This name reflects a common theme in Hebrew nomenclature, where names often bear witness to divine attributes or actions.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 26:22-23 : Alnathan is identified as the son of Achbor. He is mentioned in the narrative concerning the prophet Uriah, who prophesied against Jerusalem and Judah in a manner similar to Jeremiah. When King Jehoiakim sought to kill Uriah, the prophet fled to Egypt. The text states, "Then King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt: Elnathan son of Achbor and certain other men with him. They brought Uriah out of Egypt and took him to King Jehoiakim, who had him put to the sword and his body thrown into the burial place of the common people."

2. Jeremiah 36:12, 25 : Alnathan is again mentioned in the account of the reading of Jeremiah's scroll. In this passage, he is one of the officials present when the scroll is read to King Jehoiakim. Despite the king's anger and subsequent burning of the scroll, Alnathan, along with others, implores the king not to destroy it. "Even though Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah urged the king not to burn the scroll, he would not listen to them."

Historical and Theological Context:

Alnathan's role in these narratives highlights the political and religious tensions during the reign of King Jehoiakim. As a royal official, Alnathan's actions reflect the complex interplay between loyalty to the king and the recognition of prophetic authority. His involvement in the extradition of Uriah and his attempt to prevent the destruction of Jeremiah's scroll suggest a nuanced position within the royal court, possibly indicating a respect for prophetic voices despite the king's opposition.

Theologically, Alnathan's account underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and human agency. His name, meaning "God has given," serves as a reminder of God's providence and the belief that all authority ultimately derives from the divine. His actions, whether in compliance with or in opposition to the king's orders, illustrate the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by those in positions of power when confronted with God's word through the prophets.

Cultural and Literary Significance:

In the broader literary context of the Bible, Alnathan's character contributes to the narrative tension between prophetic truth and royal authority. His presence in the text serves as a narrative device to highlight the resistance faced by prophets like Jeremiah and Uriah, who spoke God's truth to power. Alnathan's account is a testament to the enduring struggle between faithfulness to God's message and the pressures of political allegiance.

Alnathan's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, provides insight into the historical and spiritual dynamics of his time. His actions and the consequences thereof offer a window into the challenges of maintaining integrity and faithfulness amidst political and social upheaval.ALNATHAN

al'-na-than (Alnathan, "God has given," the Revised Version (British and American) ELNATHAN): Apocryphal name of a person (1 Esdras 8:44) corresponding to Elnathan of Ezra 8:16. He was one of the learned men summoned by Ezra, as he was beginning his journey to Jerusalem, and sent to Iddo to ask for ministers for the house of Yahweh.

Alnathan
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ALNATHAN. al'-na-than (Alnathan, "God has
given," the Revised Version (British and American) ELNATHAN ...
/a/alnathan.htm - 6k

Aloes (5 Occurrences)

/a/aloes.htm - 12k

Almugwood (2 Occurrences)

/a/almugwood.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus