Abihud

The name Abihud is rich in meaning and etymological depth. Derived from the Hebrew elements 'ab (father) and hod (glory or splendor), it translates to 'father of renown' or 'the (divine) father is glory.' This name reflects a sense of honor and reverence, possibly highlighting the esteemed lineage or divine blessing of the individual bearing it. Interestingly, the name 'Ehud' is thought to be a shortened form of Abihud, further linking it to the Hebrew tradition of naming with theological significance. Historical sources like Cheyne and Black (1899) emphasize the divine connotation embedded in the name, suggesting an enduring legacy of faith and recognition of God's glory.

The name Abihud carries significant weight in biblical narratives, appearing in relation to two distinct individuals. One Abihud is listed as a son of Bela, the son of Benjamin, situating him within the tribe of Benjamin and highlighting his ancestral connection to Israel's patriarchal lineage (1 Chronicles 8:3). The second Abihud holds a more prominent role as a descendant of Zerubbabel in the Davidic line, making him part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:13). This dual representation underscores the name's enduring spiritual and historical relevance. The Divine Proximity Index for Abihud, at 70.3/100, reflects a moderate direct association with God, while the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its profound connection to the Messianic lineage. These metrics emphasize Abihud's importance in both Old Testament ancestry and New Testament fulfillment.

Abihud appears in two key scriptural contexts, each shedding light on his role in biblical history. In 1 Chronicles 8:3, Abihud is identified as a son of Bela, the son of Benjamin. This placement ties him to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and reflects the tribal significance of his family line. His presence in this genealogy underscores the importance of preserving Israel's heritage and the interconnectedness of its patriarchs. In the New Testament, the name Abihud (rendered as Abiud) reappears in Matthew 1:13, where he is listed as a descendant of Zerubbabel and an ancestor of Jesus Christ. This inclusion in the genealogy of Christ highlights Abihud’s role in the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy, linking the Old Testament promises to their New Testament realization. His mention in this lineage serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving the Davidic line through which the Savior would come.