### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Salathiḗl**, represented by `{{G4528}}`, is of Hebrew origin and identifies **Salathiel, an Israelite**. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name's significance is found entirely within its context as a key figure in biblical genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4528}}` is found exclusively in the genealogies of Jesus. In Matthew's account, he is positioned as a pivotal link following the exile to Babylon; "Jechonias begat **Salathiel**; and **Salathiel** begat Zorobabel" [[Matthew 1:12]]. Luke's genealogy likewise affirms his role as an ancestor, stating he was "the son of **Salathiel**," who was the son of Neri [[Luke 3:27]]. These mentions establish his place in the direct lineage leading to Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and context of Salathiel:
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate... beget): This verb is used to establish the direct paternal line, as seen in "Salathiel **begat** Zorobabel" [[Matthew 1:12]].
* `{{G2216}}` **Zorobábel** (Zorobabel... an Israelite): The name of Salathiel's son. His connection to Salathiel is affirmed in both Matthew and Luke [[Luke 3:27]].
* `{{G2423}}` **Iechonías** (Jechonias... an Israelite): Named as the father of Salathiel in Matthew's lineage, connecting Salathiel to the royal line that was carried away to Babylon [[Matthew 1:12]].
* `{{G3518}}` **Nērí** (Neri... an Israelite): Identified as the father of Salathiel in Luke's genealogy, presenting a different paternal line than the one in Matthew [[Luke 3:27]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G4528}}` is centered on his genealogical function.
* **Post-Exilic Link:** Salathiel's placement in the timeline is crucial. He represents the continuation of the lineage after the family line of Jechonias was "brought to Babylon" `{{G3350}}`, ensuring the continuation of the ancestral line [[Matthew 1:12]].
* **Father of Zorobabel:** His primary role is being the father of Zorobabel `{{G2216}}`. This paternal link is consistently recorded in both gospels where he is mentioned ([[Matthew 1:12]], [[Luke 3:27]]).
* **Dual Genealogical Witness:** The appearance of Salathiel in two distinct genealogies—as the son of Jechonias `{{G2423}}` in Matthew and the son of Neri `{{G3518}}` in Luke—highlights his established importance as an ancestor of Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4528}}` **Salathiḗl** is a vital genealogical marker. While no personal actions are recorded of him, his presence in scripture is indispensable for tracing the ancestry of Jesus Christ. He serves as the crucial link connecting the pre-exilic line to the post-exilic community through his son, Zorobabel, and his inclusion in both Matthew's and Luke's accounts solidifies his foundational role in the biblical narrative.
TRV