Amariah אֲמַרְיָ֫הוּ
Ancestor of Zephaniah the prophet
Who is Amariah in the Bible?
Amariah was the great-grandfather of Zephaniah the prophet, mentioned in the genealogy provided at the opening of the Book of Zephaniah (Zephaniah 1:1). According to this lineage, Amariah was the son of Hezekiah and the father of Gedaliah, positioning him as an important ancestor in a line that may have had royal or priestly connections. Though Amariah himself is not described as performing any recorded actions or receiving direct revelation, his inclusion in Zephaniah's genealogy helped establish the prophet's credibility and authority during his ministry under King Josiah's reign. Amariah thus serves as a significant link in the historical and spiritual lineage leading to one of Judah's prophets during a pivotal period of religious reform.
Biography
Amariah is mentioned in the opening verse of the Book of Zephaniah, which provides the prophet's genealogy. He is listed as the great-grandfather of Zephaniah, who prophesied during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. (Zep.1.1)
The genealogy traces Zephaniah's lineage back four generations: Zephaniah, son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah. This suggests that Zephaniah came from a notable family, possibly with royal or priestly connections, as the name Hezekiah may refer to the king of Judah.
Amariah's inclusion in this genealogy helps to establish Zephaniah's credibility and authority as a prophet. It also provides a historical context for Zephaniah's ministry, placing him during the reign of King Josiah, who instituted significant religious reforms in Judah. (2Ki.22-23)
Apart from being mentioned in Zephaniah's genealogy, no further details are provided about Amariah's life, his role, or any significant events associated with him.
The mention of Amariah in this context serves to underscore the importance of family lineage in establishing the legitimacy and authority of prophetic figures in ancient Israel. It also highlights the continuity of God's message through successive generations of His servants.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentZephaniah 1 verse
- Zephaniah 1:1
"This is the word of the LORD that came to Zephaniah son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah:"
Study Zephaniah →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אֲמַרְיָ֫הוּ |