Ἀχάζ

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek name Acház, represented by G881, identifies an Israelite of the same name and is of Hebrew origin. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, where its sole function is to name an individual within a lineage.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The use of G881 is found exclusively within the genealogy presented in the Gospel of Matthew. In this passage, Acház is presented as a crucial link in the lineage, being the son of Joatham G2488 and the father of Ezekias G1478. The name appears twice in one verse to establish this direct, two-way generational connection: "Joatham... begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias" Matthew 1:9.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words in the immediate context define the genealogical position of Acház:

• G1080 gennáō (to procreate... beget): This is the key verb that establishes the direct father-son relationship, stating that Acház was begotten by Joatham and, in turn, begat Ezekias Matthew 1:9.
• G2488 Iōátham (Joatham, an Israelite): The father of Acház, who is named immediately before him in the genealogical list Matthew 1:9.
• G1478 Ezekías (Ezekias, an Israelite): The son of Acház, demonstrating the continuation of the ancestral line through him Matthew 1:9.
• G3604 Ozías (Ozias, an Israelite): The grandfather of Acház, whose mention establishes the preceding link in the same verse Matthew 1:9.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G881 is derived entirely from its placement within the genealogy of Matthew 1.

• Genealogical Link: The presence of Acház places him as a specific ancestor in the lineage leading to Jesus, as recorded in this gospel Matthew 1:9.
• Continuity of the Line: The simple particle dé G1161, or "and," is used to connect each generation, emphasizing the unbroken succession that includes Acház and his descendants.
• Physical and Spiritual Birth: The verb gennáō G1080, used for the physical begetting of Acház's son, is used figuratively elsewhere to describe being "born of God" 1 John 5:4 or to "be born again" John 3:3, linking the theme of physical ancestry to spiritual regeneration.

Summary

In summary, Acház G881 is a proper name whose biblical importance is entirely defined by its context within a single verse. It identifies a specific Israelite as a link in the genealogy recorded in Matthew, connecting his father Joatham G2488 and his son Ezekias G1478. While the name itself is straightforward, the words used alongside it in its only appearance connect the physical ancestry to broader theological concepts.