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H283 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אַחְיוֹ
Achyow
Proper Name, masculine
Ahio (His Brother / Brotherly)

Definition

The Hebrew proper name Achyow (Ahio) is derived from ach (brother) with a possessive suffix, meaning 'his brother' or 'brotherly.' The most notable Ahio is the son of Abinadab who walked before the ark of the covenant as it was transported toward Jerusalem in David's time.

Usage & Theological Significance

The transport of the ark in 2 Samuel 6 stands as one of Scripture's most instructive narratives about approaching a holy God. Ahio walked before the ark while his brother Uzzah walked beside it. When Uzzah reached out to steady the ark and was struck dead, God demonstrated that His holiness demands His prescribed order of approach. The proper way to transport the ark was on the shoulders of the Levites (Numbers 7:9), not on a cart. This event teaches that sincere intentions cannot substitute for obedient reverence. God's way is the only safe way.

Key Bible Verses

2 Samuel 6:3 They set the ark of God on a new cart and brought it from the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, sons of Abinadab, were guiding the new cart.
2 Samuel 6:4 with the ark of God on it, and Ahio was walking in front of it.
1 Chronicles 13:7 They moved the ark of God from Abinadab's house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio guiding it.
Numbers 7:9 But Moses did not give any to the Kohathites, because they were to carry on their shoulders the holy things, for which they were responsible.
2 Samuel 6:7 The LORD's anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God.

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