Who was Akim?

Akim is a biblical figure mentioned briefly in the genealogy of Jesus Christ found in the Gospel of Matthew. Though not a major character in the biblical narrative, Akim holds theological importance as part of the line that led to the Messiah. The name Akim is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Jehoiakim or Akim, meaning “the Lord will establish” (from the Hebrew root “qum” meaning “to rise or establish”). This etymology reflects the enduring theme of God’s sovereign establishment of His redemptive plan through generations.

Biblical Reference

Akim is mentioned only once in Scripture:

• Matthew 1:14 (NIV) – “Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud.” 

Though absent from the Old Testament genealogies, Akim is included in Matthew’s carefully crafted genealogy, which emphasizes Jesus’ royal and messianic lineage.

Biblical Context and Importance

Genealogies and God’s Faithfulness

The inclusion of Akim in Matthew 1 situates him during the post-exilic period—the time between the return from Babylon and the birth of Christ. While this era is largely silent in terms of recorded Scripture (known as the intertestamental period), the genealogy functions to bridge the Old and New Testaments. It shows that God did not abandon His promises during the 400 years of prophetic silence.

Matthew’s genealogy is structured to highlight three sets of fourteen generations (Matthew 1:17), symbolizing divine order and covenantal completeness. Akim stands in the middle of that final group, linking the remnant of Israel’s hope with its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.

What Akim’s Inclusion Teaches Us

Although we know nothing else about Akim personally—no great deeds, trials, or speeches—his presence in the genealogy of Christ teaches us several valuable lessons:

• Every life matters in God’s plan. Even obscure figures are vital in the outworking of divine redemption. 
• God’s purposes span generations, even when individuals are forgotten by history. 
• Faithfulness may not be public, but it is remembered by God. 

Relevance for Today’s Christians

Encouragement for the Unseen

Akim’s quiet, unrecorded faithfulness reminds believers that significance in God’s kingdom is not tied to fame or accomplishment. Many Christians live obedient lives in anonymity. Yet, like Akim, they are part of a greater purpose—often unseen but no less real.

• Parents raising children in the faith 
• Workers who serve with integrity 
• Members of small churches who remain faithful despite challenges 

All these lives contribute to the unfolding work of Christ in the world.

Assurance of God’s Sovereignty

Just as Akim was part of a divine genealogy designed by God, Christians can trust that God is sovereign over the details of their lives, guiding history toward His intended end.

“In him we were also chosen…according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” – Ephesians 1:11 (NIV)

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

Akim’s primary role in Scripture is as an ancestor of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. This highlights the gospel truth that God keeps His promises:

• Jesus did not appear randomly, but came through a line of real people—including obscure, unknown individuals like Akim. 
• This affirms the humanity of Christ. Jesus entered our world through a human family tree, carrying with it stories of faith, failure, and hope. 
• Akim’s name, meaning “the Lord will establish,” points to the kingdom Jesus came to inaugurate—an eternal kingdom established by God, not by human power. 

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Covenant Faithfulness

God’s covenant with Abraham included a promise that his descendants would bless the world (Genesis 12:3). Akim represents one link in the chain of that fulfilled promise.

2. God’s Providence Through Generations

The story of redemption is not merely a collection of events but a narrative guided by God’s hand across centuries. Akim’s place reinforces the providential work of God from the exile to Christ.

3. Jesus as the Fulfillment of History

From Adam to Noah, Abraham to David, and finally to Christ—every life builds toward Jesus. Akim’s presence shows that the story of salvation is not accidental. Jesus is the center of history.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Akim’s brief mention encourage you in your own quiet faithfulness? 
2. In what ways can you trust that God is using your life, even if you never see the results? 
3. How does God’s sovereignty over generations increase your confidence in His promises? 
4. What does the genealogy of Jesus teach you about the character of God? 
5. How can your life be part of pointing others to Christ, as Akim’s life ultimately did?