In this post we’ll focus more on the genealogy and the meaning of names of the ancestral human lineage of Yah’shua (Jesus). We’ll look at the prophetic meaning of these names, how history is really His-story and how Matthew 1 was cleverly constructed.
Background
Before we start, we have to remind ourselves of two things.
One - in any genealogy, no matter where you find yourself in this world, there will be a recurrence of names as generations named successors after their forefathers in an effort to keep a legacy or memory alive. Also, in all instances lineage succession (inheritance) is dependent on customs and customary law, whether written or whether followed as a result of tradition or lore.
Two - even though we’ll be going to great lengths to investigate the patrilineal line of the ancestors of Jesus, it was all nullified the very moment that Mary, the mother of Jesus, gave consent to the Holy Spirit to impregnate her. This in itself, cancelled the claims and strongholds of traditions and customs when it comes to Jesus Himself (The words of Jesus even comes to mind when he explained that the religion makes the word of God to no effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. [Mark 7:13])
As we move on, we’ll be mindful of the fact that the Gospel (the good-news-only-message) of God’s Grace (Jesus) is the only power unto salvation [Rom 1:16] that all came together on that awesome and fearful (reverent) day of God.
A Closer Look at the genealogy
In Matthew 1:1-17 the names in the lineage of Jesus each carry significant weight, both in terms of their meaning and in terms of their ancient Hebrew pictographic roots.
So, let's look at three of the prominent names first.
Abraham: The father of faith, a man who trusted God's promises. The name "Abraham" itself carries a significant meaning. It is derived from the Hebrew word "Abram," which means "exalted father." The addition of the Hebrew letter "hay" (ה) to the name changed it to Abraham, which signifies a divine elevation and a broader scope of blessing - father of extravagant Grace. The letter “hay” is closely associated with the Holy Spirit and God’s Grace. In ancient Hebrew writing it is depicted as open arms. Abraham is a metaphor for God the Father and His ultimate Grace.
David: He is the beloved king, a man after God's own heart. The name "David" is derived from the Hebrew word for "beloved" or "close friend." It symbolises God's intimate relationship with His beloved and the descendants of the Beloved (Jesus). In ancient Hebrew it is written דּוֹד showing the following word-picture: The entrance secured (by the nail in the hands of Jesus) by entering. It is the wonderful pictograph of the willing heart of man receiving the finished work of Jesus to be secured onto God and eternal life forever!
Solomon: Solomon is known for his wisdom, a symbol of divine wisdom and riches. The name "Solomon" is derived from the Hebrew word for peace and justice. It reflects the ideal ruler, one who governs with wisdom and righteousness in peace. He is the descendent of the one who received, not only inheriting all, but also extending his own wealth and wisdom in God. Solomon is written שָׁלוֹם and depicts: Taking hold of the authority secured to sprout into life.
Grace, acceptance and peace!
Even apart from the mind-blowing heptadic structure we looked at in the previous post, there is a message to be found in the meaning of names themselves in the genealogy.
When we look at the successive lineage names, starting from Abraham through to Jesus, a picture is painted of ultimate redemption, and the execution thereof.
This is the Gospel of Grace found in each of the names leading up to the Redeemer Himself!
First, the names
The genealogical names used in the Matthew 1:1-17 account are organised in three groups of fourteen:
Now, the Gospel message
Each name in the genealogy of Jesus Christ carries significance and contributes to the overall narrative. A few further notable examples are:
Hezekiah: A righteous king who trusted in God during a time of Assyrian threat.
Manasseh: A king who led Israel astray but was ultimately restored through repentance.
Josiah: A reforming king who sought to restore God's law.
Zerubbabel: A leader of the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity.
Joseph: The earthly father of Jesus, a righteous man who played a crucial role in the fulfilment of God's plan.
Jesus: The Messiah, the Son of God, the Saviour of the world.
While not every name is as prominent in biblical history, each one plays a role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. By tracing the lineage from Abraham to Jesus, Matthew highlights the continuity of God's promises and the fulfilment of prophecy.
The genealogy serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His affection and love to work through human history. It underscores the importance of God’s faith and ultimate love towards mankind to fulfill His promises. Ultimately, the genealogy leads to the climax of all history, prophecy and redemption: the birth of Jesus Christ the long-awaited Messiah, God manifesting in human flesh, being tempted in all respects like all of us, taking upon Himself all sin, defeating death, rising victoriously and abiding forever.
Looking at the meaning of names, it is not hard to see God’s ultimate grace and love towards the heart of His creation.
Conclusion
Looking at the meaning of names, it is not hard to see God’s ultimate grace and love towards the heart of His creation. The genealogy of Jesus, as presented in Matthew 1, is a powerful testament to the divine nature of Christ. It reveals His divine lineage and His role as the fulfilment of God's promises. By delving into the Hebrew language and exploring the numerical significance of names, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate details of the biblical text.
The mathematical probability of such a specific lineage occurring by chance is unthinkably impossible, suggesting even in the way and structure of this scripture as divine crafting to showcase a glorious predetermined plan for redemption.
This divine blueprint, meticulously crafted by God both in real life and in scripture, underscores the significance of Jesus Christ as the Saviour of the world.
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