Achbor, a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, is recognized primarily as the father of Elnathan. His name, Achbor, which means "mouse" in Hebrew, is indicative of the ancient practice of naming individuals with terms that reflect characteristics or symbolic meanings.

Biblical References:

Achbor is mentioned in the context of the reign of King Josiah of Judah. The primary reference to Achbor is found in the book of 2 Kings:

· 2 Kings 22:12 : "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:"

In this passage, Achbor is listed among the officials whom King Josiah sent to inquire of the Lord concerning the words of the Book of the Law that had been found in the temple. This event is significant as it marks a pivotal moment in the religious reforms initiated by Josiah, leading to a renewed covenant with the Lord and the purging of idolatry from Judah.

Historical and Religious Context:

Achbor's role, though briefly mentioned, places him in the midst of a critical period in Judah's history. The discovery of the Book of the Law during Josiah's reign led to a national religious revival. Achbor, as one of the king's trusted officials, was part of the delegation sent to consult the prophetess Huldah. This consultation was crucial in confirming the authenticity and divine authority of the discovered text, which spurred Josiah's reforms.

Family and Legacy:

Achbor is noted as the father of Elnathan, who is mentioned in the book of Jeremiah:

· Jeremiah 26:22 : "Then King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt: Elnathan son of Achbor along with some other men."

Elnathan, Achbor's son, served under King Jehoiakim, Josiah's successor. His involvement in retrieving the prophet Uriah from Egypt, as recorded in Jeremiah, suggests that Achbor's family maintained a position of influence in the royal court.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Achbor's inclusion in the narrative underscores the importance of obedience and responsiveness to God's word. His participation in the inquiry about the Book of the Law highlights the collective responsibility of the leaders of Judah to seek divine guidance and implement God's commandments. Achbor's role, though not extensively detailed, contributes to the broader theme of covenant renewal and the centrality of Scripture in guiding the moral and spiritual direction of the nation.

Achbor's mention in the biblical text, while brief, serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of individuals within God's redemptive history. His legacy, through his son Elnathan, continues to reflect the ongoing narrative of faithfulness and the pursuit of righteousness in the face of national challenges.Jeremiah 26:22
And Jehoiakim the king sent men into Egypt, namely, Elnathan the son of Achbor, and certain men with him into Egypt.
Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 36:12,25
Then he went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber: and, see, all the princes sat there, even Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes.
Nave's Topical Index

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... His successor, Amon, during his brief reign of two years,* had no time to desert
the ways of his father, and Josiah,** who came to the throne in 638 BC, at the ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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