### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Rhoboám**, represented by `{{G4497}}`, is a proper name of Hebrew origin that identifies **Roboam**, an Israelite. It appears **2 times** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its use is exclusively found within the context of biblical genealogy, where it serves to identify a specific individual in a lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4497}}` is in the genealogy recorded in Matthew. The verse explicitly places **Rhoboám** within this lineage, stating, "Solomon begat **Roboam**; and **Roboam** begat Abia" [[Matthew 1:7]]. This usage twice in the same verse solidifies his role as a genealogical link, identifying him as the son of Solomon and the father of Abia.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the genealogical context of **Rhoboám**:
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō**: This verb, meaning **to procreate** or **beget**, is the action that links **Rhoboám** to his father and son in [[Matthew 1:7]]. It is used literally to describe physical lineage but can also be used figuratively to mean regenerate or be born again [[John 3:3]].
* `{{G4672}}` **Solomṓn**: This name identifies the father of **Rhoboám**. He is defined as "the son of David" and is mentioned as a figure of great glory and wisdom ([[Matthew 6:29]], [[Luke 11:31]]).
* `{{G7}}` **Abiá**: This is the name of the son whom **Rhoboám** begat [[Matthew 1:7]]. The name is defined as "Abijah, the name of two Israelites."
* `{{G760}}` **Asá**: This name identifies the grandson of **Rhoboám** and the son of Abia [[Matthew 1:7]]. He is defined simply as "Asa, an Israelite."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4497}}` is found entirely in its placement within the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
* **Messianic Lineage:** The inclusion of **Rhoboám** in Matthew's genealogy is crucial for demonstrating the unbroken line from King Solomon to Jesus, affirming Christ's royal ancestry [[Matthew 1:7]].
* **Physical vs. Spiritual Birth:** The verb connecting **Rhoboám** to his father and son is **gennáō** `{{G1080}}`, meaning to beget. The same word is used theologically to describe a spiritual "new birth," such as being "born of God" [[1 John 4:7]]. This provides a contrast between the physical generation that established the lineage of Jesus and the spiritual generation required to enter the kingdom of God [[John 3:5]].
* **Continuity of David's House:** By connecting **Solomon** `{{G4672}}` to **Abia** `{{G7}}`, **Rhoboám** serves as a vital link ensuring the continuation of the Davidic line as recorded in this specific genealogical account.
### Summary
In summary, **Rhoboám** `{{G4497}}` is a proper name whose sole function in the New Testament is to serve as a specific link in a genealogy. Appearing only in [[Matthew 1:7]], the name has no independent theological weight but derives its importance entirely from its context. It connects the reign of Solomon to the subsequent generations in the lineage of Jesus Christ. The use of this name illustrates how even minor figures are essential in the biblical record for establishing the historical and royal continuity leading to the Messiah.
TRV