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.
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.
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."
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.
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