Who was Antothijah?

Antothijah (Hebrew: אֲנָתוֹתִיָּה, ‘Anāṯōṯîyāh) is a little-known figure mentioned briefly in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin in the Old Testament. His name likely means “Yahweh has answered” or “Jehovah of Anathoth“, indicating a connection to the Levitical city of Anathoth, which was located in the territory of Benjamin and known as a priestly town (cf. Joshua 21:18; Jeremiah 1:1).

Antothijah appears in 1 Chronicles 8:24 as a descendant of Shashak, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. The verse reads:

“Hananiah, Elam, Antothijah,” (1 Chronicles 8:24, NIV)

This brief mention places him within a genealogical context rather than a narrative one. Although there are no recorded exploits or actions directly associated with Antothijah, his inclusion in the genealogies of Benjamin reflects the chronicler’s concern for preserving the tribal and familial lines of Israel’s history.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• 1 Chronicles 8:1-40 – The entire chapter provides a genealogical list of the tribe of Benjamin, tracing lineages from Benjamin himself through various descendants, including Saul and his family.

• 1 Chronicles 8:24 – The specific verse where Antothijah is mentioned.

• Joshua 21:18 – Anathoth is listed as a Levitical city in the territory of Benjamin.

• Jeremiah 1:1 – The prophet Jeremiah was from Anathoth, further tying the city to priestly significance.

The Significance of Antothijah in the Biblical Record

Though Antothijah’s role in Scripture is minimal and strictly genealogical, his presence within the record reflects broader themes central to biblical theology. Names like his—bearing the divine name Yahweh—emphasize the covenantal identity of Israel. His name, meaning “Yahweh has answered,” resonates with the broader biblical theme of God’s faithfulness and attentiveness to His people.

The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles is not merely a historical document. It serves a theological function: to affirm God’s faithfulness in preserving His covenant people, even through exile and dispersion. Antothijah’s name is part of this larger framework, testifying to a line that leads to the coming of the Messiah.

What This Means for Today’s Christians

Antothijah’s brief mention reminds believers today of several important truths:

1. Every Person Matters in God’s Plan: Even obscure individuals in the biblical record are named and remembered. This reinforces the value of each life in the eyes of God. God does not forget even those who appear insignificant in human history.

2. Faithfulness Across Generations: The genealogies show that God is working through families and generations. Antothijah stands in a long line that affirms God’s covenantal dealings with Israel. In Christ, believers are part of a spiritual lineage (Galatians 3:29), adopted into God’s family.

3. God’s Answering Presence: Antothijah’s name serves as a reminder of God’s responsiveness to prayer and need. “Yahweh has answered” is a testimony that God hears and acts. This encourages Christians to bring their petitions before the Lord with confidence (Philippians 4:6).

How Antothijah’s Line Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The tribe of Benjamin holds special significance in biblical history. From it came King Saul (1 Samuel 9:1-2) and the apostle Paul (Philippians 3:5). Though Antothijah himself does not appear in messianic lineages like those of Judah, his tribe is woven into the redemptive story.

Moreover, the chronicler’s commitment to preserving such records—even after the Babylonian exile—was aimed at affirming that the promises of God were not nullified by Israel’s failures. These genealogies ultimately pave the way for the New Testament’s genealogical records (Matthew 1; Luke 3), which culminate in the coming of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah.

In Jesus, God has “answered” once and for all. He is the fulfillment of the long-anticipated promise (2 Corinthians 1:20), the ultimate sign that Yahweh hears and acts on behalf of His people.

Broader Biblical Themes

The Importance of Genealogy

Scripture places great value on ancestry and lineage, not only for tribal identity but also for the unfolding of God’s covenant promises. Even minor figures like Antothijah are part of this greater narrative.

God’s Faithfulness to His People

The inclusion of names throughout the Chronicles reminds readers that God has not forgotten His people. His plans extend through the generations and are fulfilled in Christ.

The Power of Names

Biblical names often convey theological truths. “Yahweh has answered” is both a declaration of God’s past faithfulness and a foreshadowing of His ultimate response in the sending of His Son.

Reflection Questions

1. What can we learn from the fact that even seemingly insignificant people are recorded in Scripture?

2. How does the meaning of Antothijah’s name encourage you in your prayer life?

3. In what ways does the genealogical record in the Bible strengthen your confidence in God’s plan?

4. How does knowing you are part of God’s spiritual family through Christ shape your identity?

5. What does it mean to you personally that God is a God who answers?

Though Antothijah may only receive a passing mention in Scripture, his inclusion reminds us that no part of God’s Word is wasted. Every name and every life is part of the tapestry of redemption, and through Christ, even the most obscure lives find meaning and purpose in the greater story of salvation.