Learn more about Achbor

Introduction to Achbor

The name Achbor, meaning "mouse" in Hebrew, is associated with two figures in the Bible. The first is the father of Baal-hanan, a king of Edom. The second is a court official of King Josiah, who played a significant role in Josiah’s religious reforms by consulting the prophetess Huldah regarding the rediscovered Book of the Law. These mentions highlight Achbor's connections to leadership and significant historical events in Israel's and Edom’s history.

Achbor Pronunciation

“Achbor” is pronounced as AK-bohr, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Achbor in the Bible

Father of Baal-hanan

Achbor is first mentioned as the father of Baal-hanan, one of the kings of Edom who ruled before Israel’s monarchy was established. This reference occurs in Genesis 36:38-39 and is repeated in 1 Chronicles 1:49. The lineage emphasizes the pre-Israelite leadership in Edom and provides a historical context for the region's governance.

Court Official under King Josiah

In 2 Kings 22:12-14 and 2 Chronicles 34:20, Achbor is described as a court official of King Josiah, tasked with consulting Huldah, the prophetess, after the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple. This event was pivotal in initiating Josiah's religious reforms, which sought to restore covenantal faithfulness in Judah. In the Chronicles account, Achbor is referred to as "Abdon," which is considered a variant of his name.

Achbor in Biblical History and Context

Achbor's association with Josiah’s reforms places him in the late 7th century BCE during a critical period in Judah’s religious history. His involvement in consulting Huldah reflects his role in the royal administration and his connection to the efforts to renew the covenant and eradicate idolatry in Judah. The earlier mention of Achbor as the father of an Edomite king situates the name in the genealogical and political framework of Edom, a neighboring and often rival nation to Israel.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Baal-hanan: Achbor’s son, an Edomite king mentioned in Genesis and 1 Chronicles. - Josiah: The king of Judah under whom Achbor served and who initiated significant religious reforms. - Huldah: The prophetess consulted by Achbor and others regarding the rediscovered Book of the Law.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Achbor

- Achbor’s role in Josiah’s court highlights the importance of royal officials in implementing religious and political reforms. - The variant spelling of Achbor as "Abdon" in 2 Chronicles demonstrates the flexibility of name transcription in ancient texts. - Achbor’s connection to Edom through Baal-hanan ties him to a broader narrative of regional leadership before Israel’s rise as a dominant kingdom.