### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ἀχείμ (Acheím), transliterated as Achim, is presented in its base definition as an Israelite, probably of Hebrew origin. The Strong's entry specifically invites comparison with the Hebrew name יוֹקִים (Yoqim), which is related to the verbal root קוּם (qum, `{{H6965}}`), meaning "to rise," "to stand," or "to establish." While a definitive etymology for Ἀχείμ is not provided, the suggested Hebrew connection strongly implies a meaning related to divine establishment or raising up. Thus, the name Achim likely carries the theological nuance of "Yahweh will establish" or "He will raise up," aligning with the broader biblical theme of God's sovereign plan and covenant faithfulness. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its identity as a specific individual within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Achim (Ἀχείμ) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically within the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew:
* [[Matthew 1:14]]: "and Zadok begat Achim, and Achim begat Eliud."
In this sole occurrence, Achim is listed as an ancestor of Jesus, positioned in the lineage between Zadok and Eliud. This places him within the third section of Matthew's genealogy, which spans from the Babylonian exile to the birth of Christ. Matthew's meticulous genealogical record serves a crucial purpose: to establish Jesus' rightful claim as the Messiah, tracing His descent through the royal line of David and the patriarchal line of Abraham. Achim, though an otherwise obscure figure, is therefore an essential link in this divinely ordained chain, contributing to the historical and theological validation of Jesus' identity. His inclusion underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan across generations, even through individuals about whom no other biographical details are provided in Scripture.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for Achim is to the Hebrew root קוּם (qum, `{{H6965}}`), which signifies "to stand," "to rise," or "to establish." This root is foundational to many biblical concepts, including:
* **Divine Establishment:** God's work in establishing His covenant, His kingdom, and His people (e.g., God establishing David's throne, [[2 Samuel 7:12-16]]).
* **Resurrection:** The concept of being raised from the dead (e.g., Christ's resurrection).
* **Fulfillment of Promises:** God's faithfulness in bringing His plans to fruition.
Beyond the etymological link, Achim is intrinsically related to the broader biblical concept of **genealogy**. Genealogies in Scripture, particularly in Matthew and Luke, are not mere historical records but theological statements. They serve to:
* Legitimize claims to inheritance, priesthood, or kingship.
* Demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises (e.g., the Abrahamic covenant, the Davidic covenant).
* Highlight God's sovereign work through human history, guiding and preserving a lineage for the coming Messiah.
* Connect Jesus to the entire sweep of salvation history, from creation to His advent.
Other related concepts include **covenant faithfulness**, **divine providence**, and the **Messianic lineage**, all of which are central to understanding Achim's significance within the biblical narrative.
### Theological Significance
Achim's inclusion in Matthew's genealogy, despite the absence of any further biblical information about him, carries profound theological significance.
1. **God's Meticulous Providence:** His presence in the lineage demonstrates God's meticulous and unwavering providence over human history. Even seemingly minor or unknown figures play a role in the unfolding of God's grand redemptive plan. Achim is a testament to the truth that God works through all generations, preserving the Messianic line regardless of human prominence or obscurity.
2. **Validation of Christ's Messiahship:** As a link in the chain leading directly to Jesus, Achim contributes to the irrefutable evidence of Jesus' legitimate claim as the promised Messiah. Matthew's genealogy, including figures like Achim, serves to affirm Jesus' descent from Abraham and David, fulfilling ancient prophecies and covenants.
3. **Resonance of the Name:** If Achim's name indeed means "Yahweh will establish," it resonates powerfully with the very purpose of the genealogy: to establish Jesus as the one who will establish God's eternal kingdom. The name itself becomes a quiet declaration of God's enduring purpose, echoed through the generations leading to the ultimate establishment of His reign in Christ.
4. **Inclusion of the Obscure:** The inclusion of individuals like Achim, about whom no narratives are given, highlights that God's work is not limited to the famous or powerful. Every person, known or unknown, has a place in His sovereign design, and His faithfulness extends to all generations. This underscores the humility and universality of God's plan of salvation, which embraces all humanity.
### Summary
Achim (Ἀχείμ, `{{G885}}`) is a proper noun found exclusively in the New Testament within the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Matthew 1:14]]. Likely derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to establish" or "to raise up" (קוּם, `{{H6965}}`), his name potentially signifies "Yahweh will establish." Though no other biblical details are provided about him, his inclusion in the Messianic lineage is profoundly significant. Achim serves as a vital link in the unbroken chain of generations leading to Christ, underscoring God's meticulous providence, His unwavering covenant faithfulness, and the historical validation of Jesus' Messiahship. His presence in the genealogy reminds believers that God works through all individuals, known and unknown, to accomplish His divine purposes, ultimately establishing His kingdom through His Son.
TRV