אֲחִילוּד (a.chi.lud)
a.chi.lud
Ahilud
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Ahilud appears in the historical records of Israel’s United Monarchy, specifically within the administrative lists of Kings David and Solomon. It is a proper noun referring to a man identified as the father of two officials: Jehoshaphat, who served as David’s recorder or chronicler, and Baana, an officer under Solomon (2 Samuel 8:16; 1 Kings 4:3). The name occurs five times in the Hebrew Bible, anchoring this family within the bureaucratic structure of the early kingdom.
Linguistically, Ahilud is generally interpreted as meaning "child's brother" or "brother of a child." This etymology suggests a familial designation rather than a title. While the name itself does not carry explicit theological weight like covenant names do, its presence in these texts highlights the importance of record-keeping and administration during this period. The mention of Ahilud’s sons underscores how royal duties were often hereditary or tied to specific families within the court.
Translators typically retain the name as Ahilud without attempting to translate it into English, preserving its identity as a person rather than a concept. This approach respects the historical nature of the text, where names serve to identify individuals within a lineage. The brief mentions of Ahilud remind readers that behind the grand narratives of kings and prophets were numerous officials managing the daily operations of the state.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Ahilud appears in the background of Israel’s United Monarchy, identifying the father of Jehoshaphat and Baana. These men held vital administrative roles, serving as recorders and regional officers under King Solomon. Their work ensured that the kingdom’s resources were managed with order and precision, reflecting a God-given desire for justice and structure in human society.
While we do not know Ahilud’s personal story, his family’s service reminds us that faithful stewardship often happens behind the scenes. In offices, homes, and local communities, people quietly maintain records, organize resources, and support leaders so that larger goals can be achieved. This kind of dependable work honors God just as much as public ministry.
When you notice the importance of order and reliability in your own life, remember that these quiet acts of service matter deeply. Whether you are managing a household, keeping accounts at work, or supporting a team, your steady contribution helps build a stable environment for others to thrive.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Ahilud5×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲחִיל֖וּד4×
- אֲחִיל֔וּד1×
Key Verses
-
II Samuel 8:16
Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the army, Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder,
This verse establishes Jehoshaphat as the son of Ahilud and recorder during David’s reign, showing the family’s early involvement in royal administration.
-
I Kings 4:3
Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder;
Here Ahilud is mentioned again as the father of Jehoshaphat, who continues as recorder under Solomon, linking two generations to the same trusted duty.
-
I Kings 4:12
Baana the son of Ahilud, in Taanach and Megiddo, and all Beth Shean which is beside Zarethan, beneath Jezreel, from Beth Shean to Abel Meholah, as far as beyond Jokmeam;
This occurrence identifies Baana, another son of Ahilud, as an officer over specific regions, highlighting the family’s expanded role in Solomon’s government.