Ahikam
“Brother of support, helper”
Summary
A high-ranking official under King Josiah who later protected the prophet Jeremiah, and father of Gedaliah who became governor after Jerusalem's fall.
☩Service under Josiah
Ahikam the son of Shaphan was one of the four eminent officials sent by King Josiah to inquire of the prophetess Huldah concerning the newly discovered book of the law. His father Shaphan served as the royal secretary, and the family maintained a prominent position in Judah's government for several generations.
☩Protector of Jeremiah
When the prophet Jeremiah faced persecution for his messages of judgment, Ahikam used his influence to protect him from King Jehoiakim and those who sought to execute him. This protection proved essential for Jeremiah's continued ministry through the tumultuous final years of Judah.
☩Family Legacy
Ahikam's family continued to show kindness to Jeremiah. After Jerusalem fell to Babylon, his son Gedaliah was appointed governor over the remaining population in Judah. Jeremiah was entrusted to Gedaliah's care by the Babylonian officials.