Pronunciation Guide: ah-SAH
Basic Definition
Strong’s G760: Ἀσά (Asa) was a king of Judah who ruled for 41 years (913-873 BCE). His name means “healer” or “physician” in Hebrew (אָסָא). As the third king of Judah after the division of Solomon’s kingdom, Asa was known for his religious reforms and restoration of true worship of Yahweh.
Etymology and Morphology
- Proper noun of Hebrew origin (אָסָא)
- Used primarily in genealogical and historical narrative sections
- Appears in both the Septuagint and New Testament
- Represents transliteration from Hebrew to Greek
Ἀσά Morphology:
- Ἀσά (nominative) – Asa
- τοῦ Ἀσά (genitive) – of Asa
- τῷ Ἀσά (dative) – to/for Asa
- τὸν Ἀσά (accusative) – Asa (as direct object)
Origin & History
The name Ἀσά enters biblical Greek through the Septuagint’s translation of the Hebrew אָסָא (Asa). In classical Greek literature, this name is not attested, confirming its exclusively Hebrew origins. The Septuagint consistently transliterates it as Ἀσά throughout the historical books, particularly in 1 Kings (3 Kingdoms LXX) and 2 Chronicles (2 Paralipomenon LXX).
Josephus, in his “Antiquities of the Jews” (8.11.3), uses the hellenized form Ἄσανος (Asanos), showing how the name was adapted for Greek-speaking audiences while maintaining its connection to the Hebrew original.
Expanded Definitions & Translation Options
- A personal name signifying “healer” or “physician”
- A royal title associated with Judean monarchy
- A key figure in the Davidic genealogy
Ἀσά Translation Options:
- Asa – Standard transliteration used in most English versions
- Asah – Alternative transliteration reflecting Hebrew pronunciation
- Assa – Variant found in some early manuscripts, though less common
Biblical Usage
In the New Testament, Ἀσά appears exclusively in Matthew 1:7-8 as part of the Messiah’s genealogy. The Septuagint presents a more extensive usage, detailing his reign in 1 Kings 15:9-24 and 2 Chronicles 14-16. His appearance in Matthew’s genealogy emphasizes his role in preserving the Messianic line despite the divided kingdom period.
Key Biblical References:
- “And Abijah became the father of Asa” Matthew 1:7
- “Asa did what was right in the sight of the LORD” 1 Kings 15:11
- “Asa’s heart was fully committed to the LORD all his life” 1 Kings 15:14
Cultural Insights
In ancient Near Eastern culture, names often carried prophetic significance. The meaning “healer” associated with Asa’s name proved particularly relevant as he “healed” Judah of idolatry by removing the Asherah poles and high places. His reforms included destroying the idol of the queen mother (גְּבִירָה, gebirah), a particularly bold move given the cultural importance of this position in ancient Judean society.
The archaeological record from this period reveals evidence of religious reform in Judah, with destruction layers at various high places dating to the early 9th century BCE, aligning with biblical accounts of Asa’s reforms.
Theological Significance
Asa’s reign represents a crucial period of spiritual renewal in Judah’s history. His appearance in Matthew’s genealogy is significant as it demonstrates how Yahweh preserved the Messianic line through faithful kings who maintained true worship. His reforms echo the later ministry of the Messiah Jesus, Who would ultimately “heal” Israel and the nations through His sacrificial death and resurrection.
The theological pattern of restoration and reform established during Asa’s reign becomes a template for spiritual renewal throughout Scripture, pointing to the ultimate restoration that would come through the Messiah.
Personal Application
Asa’s life challenges believers to examine areas where compromise may have crept into their walk with God. Just as he took bold steps to remove idolatry, including standing against his own grandmother’s pagan influence, we too must be willing to eliminate anything that hinders our relationship with the Lord, regardless of cultural or personal cost.
His later failure to trust God with a severe foot disease (2 Chronicles 16:12) reminds us that maintaining trust in God’s healing power requires consistent faith throughout our entire journey.
Related Words
- βασιλεύς (basileus) “king” – Describes Asa’s royal position and authority in Judah See G935
- ἰατρός (iatros) “physician” – Connects to the meaning of Asa’s name as “healer” See G2395
- θεραπεύω (therapeuo) “to heal” – Reflects the healing ministry implied in Asa’s name See G2323
- μεταρρυθμίζω (metarruthmizō) “to reform” – Describes the nature of Asa’s actions in Judah See G3345
Did you Know?
- Archaeological evidence from Tel Dan mentions the “House of David” from this period, confirming the historical context of Asa’s reign and the divided monarchy.
- The removal of the queen mother (גְּבִירָה) from her position was unprecedented in ancient Near Eastern royal courts, showing the radical nature of Asa’s reforms.
- Modern Israeli hospitals sometimes reference Asa’s name (אָסָא) when explaining the biblical roots of healing ministry, though they usually note the irony of his ultimate failure to trust God for healing.
Remember This
Asa’s name reminds us that true healing – whether personal, national, or spiritual – comes through unwavering faith in God and the courage to reform whatever stands against His truth.
