### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Zorobábel**, represented by `{{G2216}}`, is of Hebrew origin and identifies an Israelite named Zorobabel. This name appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is exclusively found within genealogical lists, where it serves as a crucial link connecting generations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2216}}` is central to establishing the lineage of Christ in two separate gospels. Matthew's account states that after the Israelites were brought `{{G3350}}` to Babylon, Salathiel `{{G4528}}` begat `{{G1080}}` **Zorobabel** [[Matthew 1:12]]. The very next verse continues this line, stating that **Zorobabel** `{{G2216}}` begat `{{G1080}}` Abiud `{{G10}}` [[Matthew 1:13]]. Luke's genealogy affirms this lineage from a different perspective, listing an individual as "the son of **Zorobabel**, which was the son of Salathiel `{{G4528}}`" [[Luke 3:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Zorobabel's place in scripture:
* `{{G4528}}` **Salathiḗl** (Salathiel (i.e. Shealtiel), an Israelite): This individual is identified as the father of Zorobabel in both Matthew's and Luke's genealogies ([[Matthew 1:12]], [[Luke 3:27]]).
* `{{G10}}` **Abioúd** (Abihud, an Israelite): This individual is identified as the son of Zorobabel in the lineage recorded in Matthew [[Matthew 1:13]].
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate... beget, be born): This verb is the primary action associated with Zorobabel in the text, defining his role as a progenitor who "begat" his descendants [[Matthew 1:12-13]].
* `{{G3350}}` **metoikesía** (a change of abode... expatriation): This word establishes the historical setting for Zorobabel's lineage, placing him in the generation after the "carrying away" to Babylon [[Matthew 1:12]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G2216}}` is tied directly to its genealogical function.
* **Generational Connector:** Zorobabel's primary role in these passages is to serve as a vital link between his father, Salathiel `{{G4528}}`, and his son, Abiud `{{G10}}`, ensuring the continuity of the ancestral line [[Matthew 1:12-13]].
* **Post-Exilic Link:** He is a key figure in the section of genealogy that occurs after the Babylonian exile, as highlighted by Matthew's mention of the event just before his birth [[Matthew 1:12]].
* **Corroborated Lineage:** The inclusion of Zorobabel in the genealogies of both Matthew and Luke underscores his accepted importance in the lineage traced to Jesus Christ ([[Matthew 1:12]], [[Luke 3:27]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2216}}` **Zorobábel** is a proper name whose sole function in the provided scriptures is to mark a specific individual within a lineage. While appearing only a few times, his position as the son of Salathiel and a father in the line of descent is critical for the genealogical records presented in the New Testament. His presence helps bridge the period after the Babylonian exile to the generations that followed.
TRV