AMARIAH
“Amariah,” with its rich meaning of “Yahweh promised,” stands as a testament to the faithfulness of God throughout history. The Bible introduces us to nine individuals named Amariah. It was commonly used as a name of priests in the History of ancient Israel and Judah. Through their stories, we delve into the promises of Yahweh and the profound impact of faith on their lives.
Etymology
The name “Amariah” has its origins in Hebrew. It is composed of two elements: “Amar,” meaning “to say” or “to speak,” and “yah,” which is a shortened form of “Yahweh,” the name of God in Hebrew. Therefore, the etymology of “Amariah” is “Yahweh has said” or “Yahweh speaks.” This name is found in various contexts throughout the Bible, often associated with individuals from the priestly lineage or those who held positions of religious significance.
1) Amariah: One of the descendants of Aaron by Eleazar
Amariah, a descendant of Aaron through Eleazar, occupies a significant place in the priesthood, particularly during a transitional period marked by the transfer of the high priestly office. The life and legacy of Amariah, provide biblical evidence for his role as the last high priest of Eleazar’s line before the transition to the lineage of Ithamar, represented by Eli.
Genealogical Evidence
The lineage of Amariah is meticulously recorded in the genealogies of the Old Testament.
Meraioth the father of Amariah, Amariah the father of Ahitub,
( 1 Chronicles 6:7 )Meraioth his son, Amariah his son, Ahitub his son, ( 1 Chronicles 6: 52 )
These passages establish his descent from Aaron through the line of Eleazar, affirming his priestly heritage and connection to the esteemed lineage of the high priests.
Priestly Service and Duties:
As a descendant of Aaron, Amariah would have been raised in the traditions of the priesthood, instructed in the sacred rituals, and entrusted with the administration of holy ordinances. His role encompassed various duties within the tabernacle or temple, including offering sacrifices, conducting ceremonies, and interceding on behalf of the people before Yahweh. ( Numbers 18: 1-7 )
Historical Context and Transition
The period in which Amariah lived coincided with significant transitions within the priesthood. Historically, the high priestly office had been held by descendants of Eleazar, but prophecy foretold a transfer to the lineage of Ithamar. This transition is prominently featured in the narrative of Eli, whose appointment signalled the end of Eleazar’s line as the primary holder of the high priesthood.
( 1 Chronicles 24: 1-19 ) ( 1 Samuel 2: 27-36 )
among whom was Ahijah, who was wearing an ephod. He was a son of Ichabod’s brother Ahitub son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the LORD’s priest in Shiloh. No one was aware that Jonathan had left. ( 1 Samuel 14:3 )
Theological Significance
Amariah’s position as the last high priest of Eleazar’s line carries profound theological implications. His faithful service amidst the changing landscape of the priesthood underscores the sovereignty of God in orchestrating His divine plan for redemption and reconciliation with His people. Throughout the Old Testament, God establishes the priesthood as a crucial intermediary between Himself and His people, with specific instructions regarding its establishment and operation.
“Have Aaron your brother brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, so they may serve me as priests. ( Exodus 28:1 )
Appoint Aaron and his sons to serve as priests; anyone else who approaches the sanctuary is to be put to death.”
( Numbers 3:10 )
He was probably the last of the high priests of Eleazar’s line before the transfer of that office to Eli, of the line of Ithamar.
2) Amariah: A Levite of the Lineage of Moses
The name “Amariah” emerges as a thread woven through the lineage of Moses, the esteemed leader and lawgiver of Israel. Amariah’s lineage traces back to Moses, the renowned lawgiver and leader of Israel. As a descendant of this revered patriarch, Amariah inherits a rich heritage of faithfulness and service to Yahweh.
Levitical Duties
Within the Levitical tribe, Amariah has been entrusted with various responsibilities related to the tabernacle or temple worship. His duties may have included assisting the priests, maintaining the sanctuary, and participating in sacred rituals.
The duty of the Levites was to help Aaron’s descendants in the service of the temple of the LORD: to be in charge of the courtyards, the side rooms, the purification of all sacred things and the performance of other duties at the house of God. 29 They were in charge of the bread set out on the table, the special flour for the grain offerings, the thin loaves made without yeast, the baking and the mixing, and all measurements of quantity and size. 30 They were also to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD. They were to do the same in the evening 31 and whenever burnt offerings were presented to the LORD on the Sabbaths, at the New Moon feasts and at the appointed festivals. They were to serve before the LORD regularly in the proper number and in the way prescribed for them. 32 And so the Levites carried out their responsibilities for the tent of meeting, for the Holy Place and, under their relatives the descendants of Aaron, for the service of the temple of the LORD. (1 Chronicles 23:28-32)
Contribution to Worship
As a Levite, Amariah played a vital role in facilitating the worship of Yahweh among the Israelites. Through his service, he contributed to the spiritual life of the community and helped uphold the sanctity of the Tabernacle or temple.
Covenantal Connection
Amariah’s lineage tracing back to Moses establishes a direct connection to the Mosaic covenant, which formed the foundation of Israel’s relationship with God. His presence among the Levites underscores the continuity of God’s promises throughout generations.
Spiritual Legacy
While specific details about Amariah’s life may be limited, his inclusion in the biblical record serves as a reminder of the diverse roles and contributions made by individuals within the Levitical tribe. His faithful service echoes the devotion of his ancestors and contributes to the broader narrative of Israel’s worship and obedience to Yahweh.
3) Amariah: The Chief Priest of Reform
In the chronicles of Israel’s history, Amariah was a chief priest who played a prominent role in the reformation under King Jehoshaphat.
Contextual Background
Amariah’s appearance in the biblical narrative coincides with a period of spiritual renewal and reformation under King Jehoshaphat. As a chief priest, he would have wielded considerable influence in guiding the nation back to the worship of Yahweh and adherence to His commandments.
In the third year of his reign he sent his officials Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel and Micaiah to teach in the towns of Judah. 8 With them were certain Levites—Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah and Tob-Adonijah—and the priests Elishama and Jehoram. 9 They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD; they went around to all the towns of Judah and taught the people. ( 2 Chronicles 17: 7-9 )
Active Participation in Reformation
During Jehoshaphat’s reign, Amariah took an active part in implementing reforms aimed at restoring the nation’s fidelity to Yahweh. His leadership and counsel would have been instrumental in carrying out these initiatives and fostering a climate of spiritual revival.
Spiritual Leadership
As a chief priest, Amariah occupied a position of spiritual authority, responsible for overseeing the religious affairs of the nation. His role extended beyond mere ceremonial duties to include teaching, adjudication, and ensuring the purity of worship practices.
In Jerusalem also, Jehoshaphat appointed some of the Levites, priests and heads of Israelite families to administer the law of the LORD and to settle disputes. And they lived in Jerusalem. 9 He gave them these orders: “You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the LORD. 10 In every case that comes before you from your people who live in the cities—whether bloodshed or other concerns of the law, commands, decrees or regulations— you are to warn them not to sin against the LORD; otherwise his wrath will come on you and your people. Do this, and you will not sin. ( 2 Chronicles 19: 8-10 )
Continuity in Priestly Lineage
The continuity of lineage emphasizes the significance of his role as a custodian of Israel’s religious heritage.
The sons of Levi:
Gershon, Kohath and Merari.
2 The sons of Kohath:
Amram, Izhar, Hebron and Uzziel.
3 The children of Amram:
Aaron, Moses and Miriam.
The sons of Aaron:
Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar.
4 Eleazar was the father of Phinehas,
Phinehas the father of Abishua,
5 Abishua the father of Bukki,
Bukki the father of Uzzi,
6 Uzzi the father of Zerahiah,
Zerahiah the father of Meraioth,
7 Meraioth the father of Amariah,
Amariah the father of Ahitub,
8 Ahitub the father of Zadok,
Zadok the father of Ahimaaz,
9 Ahimaaz the father of Azariah,
( 1 Chronicles 6: 1-9 )
Legacy of Reformation
While specific details about Amariah’s life may be limited, his involvement in the reformation under Jehoshaphat leaves a lasting legacy of spiritual renewal and revival. His dedication to upholding the principles of Yahweh’s law serves as an enduring example for future generations. ( 2 Chronicles 20: 5-12 )
4) Amariah: An ancestor of Ezra
Ezra, a significant figure in biblical history, played a crucial role in restoring Jerusalem and the Jewish community following the Babylonian exile. Ezra’s ancestry is traced back through a line of distinguished priests.
“the son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub, the son of Amariah, the son of Azariah,
the son of Meraioth.” ( Ezra 7: 2-3 )
Being a descendant of Aaron, the first high priest, Ezra belonged to the esteemed priestly caste, wielding considerable religious authority among the Israelites. This lineage likely shaped Ezra’s profound understanding of the Torah, enabling him to fulfil his role as a scribe and teacher of the Law.
Azariah the father of Amariah, Amariah the father of Ahitub, ( 1 Chronicles 6:11 )
Furthermore, Ezra’s lineage links him directly to Israel’s rich history of priesthood and temple worship. His ancestors faithfully served in the sacred duties of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, preserving Israel’s religious traditions across generations. Ezra’s ancestry serves as a poignant reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. Throughout history, God appointed leaders and servants like Ezra to guide His people, fulfill His divine purposes, and safeguard the remnant of Israel.
5) Amariah: A High Priest in Hezekiah’s Era
In the annals of Judah’s history, the reign of King Hezekiah stands out as a time of profound religious revival and reform. Amidst the upheavals and challenges of this era, Amariah emerges as a significant figure, serving as a high priest during this pivotal period.
( 2 Chronicles 31:15 )
Amariah's Presence among High Priests
Amariah is listed alongside other high priests: “And next to him were Eden, and Miniamin, and Jeshua, and Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their set office, to give to their brethren by courses, as well to the great as to the small.” This enumeration signifies Amariah’s esteemed position among the priesthood during Hezekiah’s reign.
Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah and Shekaniah assisted him faithfully in the towns of the priests, distributing to their fellow priests according to their divisions, old and young alike. ( 2 Chronicles 31:15 )
Amariah's Role in Hezekiah's Religious Reforms
Amariah’s specific actions and his inclusion among the high priests imply his active involvement in the religious reforms initiated by King Hezekiah. They were aimed to purify the worship of Yahweh, restore adherence to the Mosaic Law, and eradicate idolatry from the land.
( 2 Chronicles 29 )
6) Amariah: Zephaniah’s Lineage
Zephaniah, one of the minor prophets of the Old Testament, delivers a powerful message of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. Among the ancestors listed, Amariah holds the position of Zephaniah’s greatgrandfather. Zephaniah’s genealogy, with Amariah as his great grandfather, underscores the continuity of God’s covenantal promises through generations and the role of individuals within the larger narrative of salvation history.
The word of the LORD that came to Zephaniah son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, during the reign of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah: ( Zephaniah 1:1 )
7) Amariah: Great-grandfather of Athaiah
Athaiah’s lineage through his great-grandfather Amariah, shed light on the ancestral connections that shaped Athaiah’s identity within the historical framework of Jerusalem.
while other people from both Judah and Benjamin lived in Jerusalem): From the descendants of Judah: Athaiah son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, a descendant of Perez; ( Nehemiah 11:4 )
8) Amariah: One of the persons who sealed the covenant
In the narrative of Nehemiah’s restoration efforts in Jerusalem, a pivotal moment occurs when individuals come together to seal a covenant before God. Among those who participated in this significant event was Amariah, whose role in sealing the covenant holds profound implications.
Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, 3 Pashhur, Amariah, Malkijah, (Nehemiah 10:3).
Understanding the Significance of Sealing the Covenant
Sealing the covenant was a solemn act of ratifying the agreement between the people of Israel and God. By affixing their seals to the document, the individuals, including Amariah, publicly declared their allegiance to God’s laws and pledged obedience to His commands. This act symbolized their dedication to maintaining the covenant relationship with God and upholding the principles of faithfulness and righteousness.
Implications of Amariah's Involvement
Amariah’s participation in sealing the covenant underscores his commitment to the spiritual renewal and restoration efforts in Jerusalem under Nehemiah’s leadership. As a prominent figure among those who affixed their seals, Amariah’s endorsement of the covenant carried significant weight and exemplified his role as a faithful servant of God and a leader within the community.
9) Amariah: One of the persons who had taken 'strange wives
In the book of Ezra, the issue of intermarriage with foreign women emerges as a significant challenge for the returning exiles in Jerusalem. Among those who had taken “strange wives” sheds light on the consequences of disregarding God’s commands regarding marital unions.
Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah, 42 Shallum, Amariah and Joseph. ( Ezra 10:42 )
This verse highlights the names of those who had violated God’s commandment against intermarriage with foreign women, which was seen as a departure from the covenantal relationship with God and a compromise of Israel’s distinct identity as a chosen people.
Understanding the Consequences
The act of taking foreign wives was not merely a violation of social norms but also a spiritual transgression with far-reaching consequences. Intermarriage with idolatrous nations posed a threat to Israel’s fidelity to God and risked diluting the purity of worship and devotion to Yahweh. The repercussions of such unions were detrimental to the spiritual and moral fabric of the community. The severity of the situation prompted decisive action to rectify the spiritual compromise and restore the covenantal relationship with God.
“You shall not intermarry with them, giving your daughters to their sons or taking their daughters for your sons, for they would turn away your sons from following me, to serve other gods.” ( Deuteronomy 7: 3-4 )