Ἀχείμ

Achim

Definition

Ἀχείμ (Achim) is a proper masculine noun referring to a specific individual in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. He is identified as the son of Zadok and the father of Eliud (Matthew 1:14). In this context, the name serves solely as a personal identifier within the lineage tracing from Abraham to Jesus. There are no other major senses or meanings for this word in the biblical text, as it appears only this one time as a name.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exactly once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 1:14). Its usage is strictly onomastic, functioning as a proper name within the structured genealogy presented in Matthew 1:1-17. There are no patterns of usage beyond this single, list-like occurrence.

Etymology

The name Ἀχείμ is of Hebrew origin. While a direct Hebrew equivalent is not certain in the Old Testament, its Greek form likely derives from a Hebrew name meaning 'my brother is established' or 'he will establish'. The breakdown sometimes suggested as from Greek ἀ- (a negative prefix) and *cheim* is a folk etymology and not linguistically accurate for this proper name.

Semantic Range

While the name Achim itself is not theologically loaded, its inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:14) is theologically significant. It represents one of the many generations that connect the promises to Abraham and David with their fulfillment in Christ. Understanding that this is a real person in that lineage underscores the historical reality of Jesus's human ancestry and God's faithfulness across generations.

In first-century Jewish culture, genealogies were of paramount importance for establishing lineage, heritage, and legal rights, especially concerning the Davidic monarchy. The inclusion of Achim's name in Matthew's genealogy would have been read as a claim of Jesus's legitimate descent from King David, a crucial credential for the Messiah. The name itself reflects common Hebrew naming conventions of the period.

Word Details

Scripture References