Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning The name Asahiah, sometimes spelled Asaiah, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh has made" or "Yahweh has wrought." This name reflects the theocentric nature of Hebrew naming conventions, emphasizing the active role of God in the lives of individuals and the community. Biblical References Asahiah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reforms of King Josiah of Judah. The primary reference to Asahiah is found in 2 Kings 22:12, where he is listed among the officials sent by King Josiah to inquire of the Lord concerning the words of the Book of the Law that had been found in the temple. Role and Significance Asahiah served as a servant or official in the court of King Josiah. His role is significant in the narrative of Josiah's religious reforms, which were pivotal in the history of Judah. The discovery of the Book of the Law during the temple repairs initiated a series of religious reforms aimed at returning the nation to the covenantal faithfulness prescribed in the Mosaic Law. In 2 Kings 22:12, Asahiah is mentioned alongside other key figures: "Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the king’s servant: 'Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about the words of this book that has been found. For great is the LORD’s wrath that is kindled against us because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.'" Asahiah's inclusion in this delegation underscores his trusted position within the royal court and his involvement in the spiritual renewal of the nation. The inquiry led to the consultation with the prophetess Huldah, who confirmed the impending judgment on Judah but also acknowledged Josiah's humility and repentance, which delayed the disaster during his reign. Historical and Theological Context The period of Josiah's reign was marked by a significant religious revival and reform, as the king sought to eradicate idolatry and restore the worship of Yahweh according to the rediscovered Law. Asahiah's participation in this process highlights the collaborative effort among the king's officials to align the nation's practices with the covenantal requirements. Theologically, Asahiah's involvement in the reforms reflects the broader biblical theme of repentance and renewal. The rediscovery of the Law and the subsequent reforms serve as a reminder of the importance of Scripture in guiding the faith and practice of God's people. Asahiah's role, though briefly mentioned, contributes to the narrative of a community returning to its foundational beliefs and commitments. Conclusion Asahiah's mention in the biblical text, though limited, places him within a critical moment of Judah's history. His role as a royal official during King Josiah's reign connects him to the significant religious reforms that sought to restore the nation to covenantal faithfulness. Through his participation, Asahiah exemplifies the importance of obedience and responsiveness to God's revealed word. Smith's Bible Dictionary Asahiah(the Lord hath made), a servant of King Josiah, sent by him to seek information of Jehovah respecting the book of the law which Hilkiah found in the temple, (2 Kings 22:12,14) also called ASAIAH. (2 Chronicles 34:20) (B.C. 641.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASAHIAHas-a-hi'-a (`asayah, "Yahweh hath made"; the King James Version form; the Revised Version (British and American) ASAIAH): "The king's servant" sent by Josiah with Hilkiah, the priest, and others to inquire of Yahweh concerning the words of the book found in the temple (2 Kings 22:12, 14 2 Chronicles 34:20). Library The Rediscovered Law and Its Effects Thesaurus Asahiah (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASAHIAH. as-a-hi'-a (`asayah ... 34:20). Multi-Version Concordance Asahiah (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings 22 ... /a/asahiah.htm - 7k Asaiah (8 Occurrences) Michaiah (7 Occurrences) College (2 Occurrences) Communed (20 Occurrences) Asahel's (2 Occurrences) Commandeth (60 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Asahiah (2 Occurrences)2 Kings 22:12 2 Kings 22:14 Subtopics Asahiah: An officer of King Josiah Related Terms |
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