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.
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.
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.
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).
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