Topical Bible: Abdon: Son of Micah: Also Called Achbor

◄ Abdon: Son of Micah: Also Called Achbor ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Abdon, also known as Achbor, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is identified as the son of Micah and is noted for his role during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. The name "Abdon" means "servant" or "worshiper," while "Achbor" translates to "mouse" or "gnawer."

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 22:12 · In this passage, Abdon is referred to as Achbor. He is one of the officials sent by King Josiah to consult the prophetess Huldah regarding the Book of the Law that was found in the temple. The verse states: "Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king:"

2. 2 Kings 22:14 · This verse further describes the mission of Achbor and his companions as they seek guidance from Huldah. It reads: "So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District."

3. 2 Chronicles 34:20 · In this parallel account, Abdon is mentioned by his alternate name, Achbor. The Chronicler records: "And the king commanded Hilkiah, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king, saying,"

Role and Significance:

Abdon, as Achbor, played a significant role in the religious reforms initiated by King Josiah. His involvement in the consultation with Huldah highlights his position as a trusted official in the royal court. The discovery of the Book of the Law and the subsequent reforms were pivotal moments in the history of Judah, marking a return to covenantal faithfulness and the eradication of idolatry.

Abdon's participation in this mission underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance and the role of prophetic voices in the governance and spiritual direction of the nation. His presence in these accounts reflects the collaborative efforts of Josiah's administration to restore the worship of Yahweh and adhere to the commandments found in the rediscovered scriptures.

Historical Context:

The period during which Abdon lived was marked by significant religious and political changes. King Josiah's reign (c. 640–609 BCE) was characterized by a strong emphasis on religious reform, centralization of worship in Jerusalem, and the removal of pagan practices. The consultation with Huldah and the subsequent reforms were part of a broader movement to align the kingdom with the laws and traditions of the Mosaic covenant.

Abdon's mention in the biblical narrative, though brief, places him within this transformative era, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the king and his officials to lead the nation back to its religious roots.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 22:12
And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king's, saying,
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