### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Iōsías**, represented by `{{G2502}}`, is the name for **Josias**, an Israelite. It is of Hebrew origin and appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its sole function in scripture is to identify a key individual within the genealogy of Jesus Christ, marking a specific link in the royal lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G2502}}` are found in the Gospel of Matthew, where the lineage of Jesus is meticulously recorded. The name first appears in the list of kings, establishing his ancestry: "Amon **begat** Josias" [[Matthew 1:10]]. The following verse then establishes his role as a progenitor in the messianic line, stating, "And **Josias** begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon" [[Matthew 1:11]]. This places him at a critical juncture in Israel's history, as the last king before the Babylonian exile dramatically altered the nation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Josias's place in the genealogy:
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate... beget): This verb is the primary action associated with Josias in the text, defining his role in fathering the next generation in the lineage [[Matthew 1:11]].
* `{{G1478}}` **Ezekías** (Ezekias... an Israelite): The name of Josias's grandfather, connecting him back to a significant king of Judah and reinforcing the continuity of the royal line [[Matthew 1:10]].
* `{{G2423}}` **Iechonías** (Jechonias... an Israelite): The name of Josias's son. He is the figure who continues the lineage after the historical crisis of the exile begins [[Matthew 1:11]].
* `{{G3350}}` **metoikesía** (a change of abode... expatriation): This term, meaning "carried away," signifies the Babylonian exile, a pivotal event that serves as a time marker for the generation following Josias [[Matthew 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2502}}` is centered on its role within redemptive history.
* **Genealogical Link:** The inclusion of Josias is essential to demonstrate the unbroken lineage from the kings of Judah to Jesus. He serves as a vital link in the chain: "Amon begat **Josias**; And **Josias** begat Jechonias" [[Matthew 1:10-11]].
* **Historical Marker:** The mention of **Josias**'s descendants is explicitly tied to the "carrying away to Babylon" [[Matthew 1:11]]. His position in the genealogy marks the end of an era for the kingdom of Judah just before the exile.
* **Covenant Continuity:** By appearing immediately before the mention of the exile, and with his line continuing after it [[Matthew 1:12]], the inclusion of Josias underscores God's faithfulness in preserving the royal line through which the Messiah would come, even through periods of national judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2502}}` is far more than a simple proper name. It acts as a crucial anchor point in the genealogy of Christ presented in Matthew. The name **Josias** solidifies the historical and ancestral path to Jesus, connecting the pre-exilic kings with the lineage that endured the Babylonian captivity. His brief mention carries significant weight, illustrating the unstoppable progression of God's sovereign plan through history.
TRV