### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĂmaryâh**, represented by `{{H568}}`, means **Jah has said (i.e. promised)**. It appears 16 times across 14 unique verses, borne by nine different Israelites. The name itself is a declaration of faith in God's spoken word and covenant faithfulness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, individuals named Amariah hold significant religious and civil posts. One Amariah served as the **chief priest** (`{{H7218}}`, `{{H3548}}`) over all **matters** `{{H1697}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[2 Chronicles 19:11]]. The name features prominently in priestly and Levitical genealogies, establishing lines of succession and service. Multiple passages list an Amariah in the lineage of priests, often shown as the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Meraioth** `{{H4812}}` who **begat** `{{H3205}}` **Ahitub** `{{H285}}` ([[1 Chronicles 6:7]], [[1 Chronicles 6:11]]). Another Amariah was a priest responsible for distributing offerings in the **cities** `{{H5892}}` of the priests [[2 Chronicles 31:15]]. The name also appears in the ancestry of the prophet **Zephaniah** `{{H6846}}`, linking it to the prophetic tradition during the reign of **Josiah** `{{H2977}}` [[Zephaniah 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning and roles associated with `{{H568}}`:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): This is the Jewish national name of God from which the element "Jah" in **ʼĂmaryâh** is derived, marking it as a theophoric name that honors God.
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; by implication, a matter): This term is central to the meaning "Jah has said," connecting the name to the concept of a divine promise, commandment, or affair [[2 Chronicles 19:11]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): This word defines the primary role of several individuals named Amariah, who served in the priestly line responsible for temple worship and spiritual oversight [[2 Chronicles 31:15]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): As a name passed through generations, **ʼĂmaryâh** is frequently connected by this term to establish lineage and inheritance within the tribes of **Judah** `{{H3063}}` and Levi ([[Nehemiah 11:4]], [[1 Chronicles 23:19]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H568}}` is demonstrated through its meaning and the context of its use.
* **Divine Promise:** The name itself, "Jah has said," is a constant reminder of God's active communication and the reliability of His promises to His people.
* **Priestly Service:** The association of the name with chief priests and Levites underscores the importance of the priesthood in mediating the covenant and administering the "matters of the **LORD**" [[2 Chronicles 19:11]].
* **Covenantal Continuity:** The appearance of **ʼĂmaryâh** in genealogies spanning from the early priesthood to the post-exilic restoration highlights the endurance of God's covenant people through history, particularly through the lines of Levi and **Judah** `{{H3063}}` ([[Ezra 7:3]], [[Nehemiah 11:4]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H568}}` is more than an identifier; it is a statement of faith. The name **ʼĂmaryâh** encapsulates the core belief that God speaks and fulfills His word. Borne by priests, Levites, and ancestors of prophets, it signifies a legacy of service and a deep-rooted trust in the promises of **Yᵉhôvâh** `{{H3068}}`. The name's presence in key biblical moments illustrates the vital role of specific individuals and their families in the unfolding of God's plan for Israel.
TRV