Topical Encyclopedia Amarias is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with several individuals, primarily within the priestly lineage. The name Amarias, sometimes rendered as Amariah, means "Yahweh has promised" or "Yahweh has said." This entry explores the notable figures named Amarias and their roles within the biblical narrative.1. Amarias, the High Priest: One of the most prominent figures named Amarias is the high priest during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. In 2 Chronicles 19:11, Amarias is mentioned as the chief priest who was given authority over matters of the LORD. The verse states, "Behold, Amariah the chief priest will be over you in every matter related to the LORD, and Zebadiah son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, in every matter related to the king. And the Levites will serve as officers before you. Act with courage, and may the LORD be with those who do well." This highlights his significant role in maintaining religious order and justice in the kingdom. 2. Amarias, the Ancestor of Ezra: Another Amarias is noted in the genealogy of Ezra, the scribe and priest who led a group of exiles back to Jerusalem from Babylon. In Ezra 7:3, Amarias is listed as an ancestor of Ezra, indicating his place within the priestly lineage that traces back to Aaron, the brother of Moses. This connection underscores the continuity of the priestly line and the importance of maintaining genealogical records for the legitimacy of priestly duties. 3. Amarias, the Father of Ahitub: In 1 Chronicles 6:7, Amarias is mentioned as the father of Ahitub, further establishing his place within the priestly genealogy. This lineage is crucial for understanding the hereditary nature of the priesthood in ancient Israel and the transmission of religious responsibilities through generations. 4. Amarias in the Context of Reforms: The name Amarias also appears in the context of religious reforms and the restoration of proper worship practices. In Nehemiah 10:3, Amarias is listed among the priests who sealed the covenant, committing to follow God's law and uphold the commandments. This act of sealing the covenant was part of a broader movement to renew the spiritual life of the community after the return from exile. 5. Amarias in the Book of Zephaniah: In Zephaniah 1:1, Amarias is mentioned as the great-grandfather of the prophet Zephaniah. The verse reads, "The word of the LORD that came to Zephaniah son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, during the reign of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah." This reference situates Amarias within the royal and prophetic lineage, highlighting the interconnectedness of religious and royal leadership in Judah. The various individuals named Amarias in the Bible reflect the importance of the priestly office and the continuity of religious leadership in Israel's history. Their roles in maintaining the covenant, leading religious reforms, and serving as intermediaries between God and the people underscore the centrality of the priesthood in the spiritual life of the nation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AMARIASam-a-ri'-as (A, Amarias; B, Amartheias) = Amariah number 3: An ancestor of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2; 2 Esdras 1:2). Thesaurus Amarias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AMARIAS. am-a-ri'-as (A, Amarias; B, Amartheias) = Amariah number 3: An ancestor of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2; 2 Esdras 1:2). ... /a/amarias.htm - 6k Zemirah (1 Occurrence) Amariah's (1 Occurrence) Amariah (14 Occurrences) Amarna Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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