The Greek word Eleázar, represented by G1648, is of Hebrew origin and refers to Eleazar, an Israelite. According to usage statistics, this name appears 2 times within a single verse of the Bible, marking its presence as specific and focused.
The sole appearance of G1648 is in the genealogical record of Matthew. Eleázar is identified as a crucial link in the lineage, being the son of Eliud and the father of Matthan. The text states, "Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob" Matthew 1:15. This places him directly in the ancestral line that culminates with Jacob, the progenitor of the Israelites.
Several related words in the immediate context of G1648 clarify his role and position within the genealogy:
- G1080 gennáō (to procreate... beget): This is the verb used to establish the generational connection, stating that Eliud "begat" Eleazar, who in turn "begat" Matthan Matthew 1:15. The term is used throughout scripture to signify both physical and spiritual birth.
- G1664 Elioúd (God of majesty; Eliud, an Israelite): This is the name of the father of Eleázar, establishing the preceding link in the lineage Matthew 1:15.
- G3157 Matthán (Matthan, an Israelite): This is the name of the son of Eleázar, marking the next generation in the family line Matthew 1:15.
- G2384 Iakṓb (Jacob... the progenitor of the Israelites): As the grandson of Eleázar, Jacob's inclusion highlights the importance of this lineage in the broader history of Israel Matthew 1:15.
The theological weight of G1648 is derived entirely from its placement within this significant genealogical record.
- Generational Continuity: Eleázar functions as a vital link in the chain of ancestry. His position is defined by the verb gennáō G1080, a word used not only for physical procreation Matthew 1:15 but also for being spiritually "born of God" 1 John 5:4.
- Ancestry of Jacob: His inclusion in the genealogy is significant because it is part of the line leading to Iakṓb G2384. The house of Jacob is promised a kingdom with no end Luke 1:33, and his name is associated with God's plan of salvation Romans 11:26.
- A Particle of Connection: The particle dé G1161, translated as "and," repeatedly connects each generation, emphasizing the unbroken and continuous nature of the lineage in which Eleázar plays his part Matthew 1:15.
In summary, Eleázar G1648 is a name whose significance is tied to its role in biblical genealogy. He is not the subject of a narrative but is essential for documenting the ancestral line recorded in Matthew. His presence, bookended by his father Eliud and his son Matthan, serves to maintain the continuity of the lineage leading to Jacob. Thus, Eleázar stands as a testament to the importance of every individual link in the historical and redemptive story.
TRV