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Amariah

biblical_proper_name theological_term standard

Amariah is a Hebrew biblical personal name borne by several Old Testament men, especially in priestly and Levitical lines.

At a Glance

A Hebrew personal name appearing in the Old Testament for several different men, often in priestly or Levitical contexts.

Key Points

Description

Amariah is a Hebrew personal name used in the Old Testament for several different men. The name appears in genealogical, priestly, and historical contexts, including references in Chronicles, Ezra, and related records. Because Scripture applies the name to more than one individual, the entry should not be treated as a theological term in the strict sense. A useful dictionary treatment is a brief name entry that notes the multiple bearers of the name, its likely meaning, and the major biblical contexts in which it appears.

Biblical Context

The Old Testament frequently preserves personal names in genealogies and priestly lists, and Amariah is one such name. The references associated with the name place some bearers in priestly or Levitical lines and others in later post-exilic records, showing that the name is part of the Bible's historical and covenant record rather than a standalone doctrine.

Historical Context

Israelite naming often reflected family memory, covenant faith, and the worship life of the community. Names like Amariah commonly appear across generations, which is why a single Hebrew name can refer to multiple men in different periods. The biblical record preserves these names to maintain historical and genealogical continuity.

Jewish and Ancient Context

In ancient Israel, names often carried theological meaning and family identity. Amariah likely belongs to the common Hebrew pattern of names formed with a divine element, and its use in priestly and Levitical settings fits the broader biblical pattern of preserving lineage and office through named descendants.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

Hebrew אָמַרְיָה (’Amaryāh) / אָמַרְיָהוּ (’Amaryāhû), likely meaning "Yahweh has said" or "Yahweh speaks."

Theological Significance

Amariah itself is not a doctrine, but the name is a reminder that Scripture is historically specific and preserves real people in real covenant settings. Its priestly and Levitical associations also fit the biblical importance of lineage, office, and faithful service.

Philosophical Explanation

As a proper name, Amariah illustrates how language in Scripture functions referentially rather than conceptually. The same name can denote multiple individuals, so interpretation depends on context, genealogy, and narrative setting rather than on a single abstract definition.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not assume every occurrence of Amariah refers to the same person. The name must be read in context, especially in genealogical or priestly lists where multiple individuals can share the same name. Avoid building doctrine from the name itself.

Major Views

There is no major doctrinal dispute attached to the name itself. The main editorial issue is identification: which Amariah is in view in a given passage.

Doctrinal Boundaries

This entry should remain a Bible-name overview and not be expanded into speculative etymology or doctrinal symbolism. It should not be presented as a unique theological concept.

Practical Significance

A clear entry for Amariah helps readers navigate Bible genealogies, trace priestly and Levitical lines, and avoid confusing one individual with another in Scripture.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Amariah

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