Zacharias
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Zacharias in the Bible?
Zacharias was a member of the priestly class associated with the course of Abia. He belonged to one of the twenty-four rotational divisions established for temple service during the reign of David.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Zacharias's priestly lineage clarifies the historical setting of the Gospel narratives and explains the ritual context surrounding the birth of John the Baptist.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Zacharias reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Zacharias in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zacharias clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Zacharias." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zacharias/