Σαλαθιήλ

Salathiel

Definition

Σαλαθιήλ (Salathiel) is a proper name referring to a significant figure in the genealogies of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, he is identified as the son of Jechoniah (or Jehoiachin) in Matthew 1:12 and as the son of Neri in Luke 3:27. This apparent discrepancy is often harmonized by understanding Salathiel as the legal heir of Jechoniah through a levirate marriage or adoption within the line of Neri, thus preserving the Davidic lineage. He is also the father of Zerubbabel, a key leader in the post-exilic restoration (Matthew 1:12; Luke 3:27).

Biblical Usage

The name Σαλαθιήλ is used exclusively in the genealogical records of the Gospels. It appears twice: in Matthew 1:12, within the genealogy tracing Jesus's legal descent from King David through the royal line of kings, and in Luke 3:27, within the genealogy tracing Jesus's biological descent from David through a different ancestral line. Its usage is strictly as a personal name to establish a crucial link in the messianic lineage.

Etymology

Σαλαθιήλ is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name שְׁאַלְתִּיאֵל (Shealtiel), meaning 'I have asked of God' or 'God has asked.' It is a compound of the Hebrew verb שָׁאַל (sha'al, 'to ask') and the divine name אֵל (El, 'God'). The Greek form directly represents this Hebrew name without semantic change.

Semantic Range

Salathiel is a vital link in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, connecting the exile period to the restoration. His presence in both Gospel genealogies (Matthew 1:12 and Luke 3:27) underscores Jesus's legitimate claim to the Davidic throne, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah coming from David's line (e.g., 2 Samuel 7:12-16). Understanding this name highlights the precision and theological intentionality of the biblical genealogies in establishing Jesus's identity as the promised Savior.

In Jewish culture, genealogies were of paramount importance for establishing lineage, tribal affiliation, inheritance rights, and priestly or royal legitimacy. The inclusion of Salathiel, born during or after the Babylonian exile, signifies the continuation of the Davidic line through a period of national judgment and loss of kingship. His role as father of Zerubbabel connects him to the restoration community, bridging the gap between the monarchy and the post-exilic hope for a renewed kingdom.

No direct synonyms as a proper name. Related genealogical terms: Ζοροβαβέλ (Zorobabel, G2216) — Salathiel's son, a key post-exilic leader.

Word Details

Scripture References