Zichri, Father of Amasiah
Zichri was a man of the Divided Monarchy whose son, Amasiah, was a prominent military commander and a willing volunteer for the Lord under King Jehoshaphat of Judah.
Zichri was a Judean figure living during the Divided Monarchy, specifically during the reign of King Jehoshaphat (c. 873–848 BC). While Zichri is not recorded as holding a formal military or religious office himself, he is immortalized in the biblical record through the character and achievements of his son, Amasiah.
The mention of Zichri occurs within the administrative and military tallies of 2 Chronicles, a book focused on the spiritual and political restoration of the Davidic line. As the father of a high-ranking official who led 200,000 men, Zichri represents the generational continuity of faith and service that characterized the peak of Jehoshaphat’s righteous reign over Judah.
Background and Family
Zichri appears in the biblical narrative within the genealogical and military records of King Jehoshaphat’s administration. He is identified exclusively as the father of Amasiah. During this era of the Divided Monarchy, Judah experienced a period of significant military fortification and spiritual reform. The text places Zichri within the context of the tribe of Judah’s military structure, though his personal tribal affiliation is inferred by his son’s placement among the commanders of Judah rather than Benjamin.
Major Life Events
While the Chronicler does not provide specific details regarding Zichri’s personal actions or career, his legacy is defined by the service of his son, Amasiah. According to 2 Chronicles 17:16, Amasiah was one of the chief captains under King Jehoshaphat. The text highlights a unique distinction for this family: Amasiah is described as one who "willingly offered himself unto the Lord."
In the context of the Divided Monarchy, this suggests that Zichri raised a son who prioritized spiritual devotion alongside professional military excellence. Amasiah commanded a massive force of 200,000 "mighty men of valor," a testament to the influence and status Zichri’s household held within the kingdom of Judah. The administrative lists in this chapter are intended to show the strength of Judah when the people were aligned with Yahweh, and Zichri’s son stands as a primary example of this alignment.
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Zichri’s primary relationship is with his son, Amasiah. He is positioned in the text alongside other great commanders of the era, such as Adnah, Jehohanan, Eliada, and Jehozabad. These men formed the upper echelon of Jehoshaphat’s defense forces. By being named as the father of Amasiah, Zichri is linked to the broader reforms of Jehoshaphat, a king noted for removing high places and sending Levites to teach the Law throughout the land.
Spiritual Significance
The spiritual significance of Zichri lies in the biblical principle of heritage. In the Hebrew tradition, the naming of a father in a military census often serves to bestow honor upon the patriarch for the deeds of the son. The fact that Amasiah is singled out as a "volunteer for the Lord" reflects favorably on Zichri’s household. During a time when the Northern Kingdom of Israel was frequently lapsing into idolatry, Zichri’s family remained integrated into the faithful remnant of Judah, contributing both their physical strength and their willing hearts to the service of God and the Davidic king.
Spiritual Significance
Zichri is significant as the patriarchal head of a family that exemplified the 'volunteer spirit' during one of Judah's most prosperous spiritual eras. His inclusion in the text serves the Chronicler's purpose of documenting the specific individuals who contributed to the strength and stability of the God-fearing kingdom under Jehoshaphat.
His son’s designation as a volunteer suggests that Zichri’s household represented a shift from mandatory conscription to a more devoted, heart-led service to the Lord. This distinction elevates Zichri’s name from a mere genealogical placeholder to the progenitor of a legacy of valor and piety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zichri mean?
The name Zichri (זִכְרִי) is derived from the Hebrew root 'zakar,' meaning 'to remember.' It generally translates to 'mindful' or 'remembered' (often implying 'remembered by God').
When did Zichri live?
Zichri lived during the Divided Monarchy, specifically during the early-to-mid 9th century BC, coinciding with the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah.
Was Zichri a soldier?
The Bible does not explicitly state Zichri's occupation. However, his son Amasiah was a high-ranking military commander of 200,000 men, suggesting Zichri was part of an influential Judean family.
Which tribe did Zichri belong to?
While not explicitly named, the context of 2 Chronicles 17:16 places his son among the commanders of the tribe of Judah, making it almost certain Zichri was a member of the tribe of Judah.
Is Zichri mentioned in the New Testament?
No, this Zichri is mentioned only in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of 2 Chronicles.
Connected Figures
Amasiah
Son
Jehoshaphat
King
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 2 Chronicles1
Family & Relationships
Child
2 Chronicles 17:16
Others Named Zichri
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Zichri, Son of Shimei1 Chronicles 8:19
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Zichri, Mighty Man of Ephraim2 Chronicles 28:7
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Zichri, Levite of the Divided Monarchy1 Chronicles 26:25
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Zichri, Parent of JoelNehemiah 11:9
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Zichri, Father of Eliezer1 Chronicles 27:16
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