Topical Encyclopedia Achbor, also referred to as Abdon in some biblical texts, is a notable figure in the Old Testament, specifically during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. His name, Achbor, means "mouse" in Hebrew, while Abdon means "servant" or "service." He is recognized for his role as one of the courtiers or officials in the court of King Josiah, a king known for his religious reforms and dedication to the worship of Yahweh.Biblical References: Achbor is mentioned in the context of King Josiah's religious reforms, which were pivotal in the history of Judah. The primary reference to Achbor is found in 2 Kings 22:12, where he is listed among the officials sent by King Josiah to consult the prophetess Huldah regarding the Book of the Law that had been discovered in the temple. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king: 'Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about the words of this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us, because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.'” (2 Kings 22:12-13) In this passage, Achbor is depicted as a trusted advisor and a man of influence, chosen by Josiah to seek divine guidance. This highlights his importance in the king's court and his involvement in the significant religious revival led by Josiah. Role and Significance: Achbor's role as a courtier during Josiah's reign places him at the heart of one of the most significant periods of religious reform in Judah's history. Josiah's reforms were characterized by the removal of idolatrous practices and the restoration of the worship of Yahweh, as prescribed in the rediscovered Book of the Law. Achbor's participation in consulting Huldah underscores his commitment to these reforms and his dedication to the spiritual renewal of the nation. The consultation with Huldah, in which Achbor played a part, resulted in a prophetic confirmation of the impending judgment on Judah due to the nation's previous disobedience. However, it also affirmed Josiah's efforts to lead the people back to covenant faithfulness, which delayed the judgment during his reign. Historical and Theological Context: Achbor's presence in the narrative of Josiah's reforms is significant for understanding the broader theological themes of covenant, repentance, and divine judgment in the Old Testament. His involvement in seeking prophetic insight reflects the biblical principle of seeking God's will through His appointed messengers. This episode also illustrates the importance of godly leadership and the impact of righteous governance on a nation's spiritual direction. In summary, Achbor, or Abdon, serves as a representative of the faithful remnant within Judah's leadership, committed to upholding the covenantal relationship with God. His actions, alongside those of King Josiah and other officials, contributed to a temporary reprieve from divine judgment and a return to the worship of the one true God. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 22:14So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelled in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 34:20 Resources Who was Micaiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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