Aaron was Moses’ elder brother and served as the high priest of Israel during the Exodus. Appointed by God to speak for Moses, Aaron became Moses’ spokesperson (Ex. 4:16) and prophet (7:1), often addressing Pharaoh and performing miracles at God’s behest. He was anointed as the first high priest, with his descendants inheriting the priesthood (Ex. 29:29). The name “Aaron” (Hebrew: אַהֲרֹן, Aharon; Greek: Ἀαρών) may mean “exalted” in Egyptian or “enlightened” in Hebrew, reflecting his high status. Aaron is referenced in the New Testament, linked to John the Baptist, and discussed by Paul in Hebrews concerning the Aaronic priesthood (Hebrews 5:10). Mentioned in: Ex. 4:14 ff.; Lev. 8:1-36; Num. 16:1-50.
Abel, Adam and Eve’s second son, is known as the Bible’s first murder victim. The name “Abel” (Heb.: הֶבֶל, Hevel, Greek: Ἅβᾶλ) means “breath” or “transient,” symbolizing his short life. Abel, a shepherd, offered sacrifices to God, which were favored over his brother Cain’s offerings. His story represents righteous sacrifice (Hebrews 11:4). In art, Abel’s sacrifice appears in sarcophagi and mosaics. Mentioned in: Gen. 4:1-16.
Absalom, King David’s third son, is noted for his revolt against his father, marked by ambition and beauty. The name “Absalom” (Hebrew: אַבְשָׁלוֹם, ’Avšālōm) means “father of peace,” ironically contrasting his rebellion. His demise came when his hair caught in an oak tree. Referenced in Orthodox liturgy, he symbolizes pride and anger. Found in: 2 Sam. 13–18.
Abijah’s Division was one of 24 priestly divisions organized by King David among Aaron’s descendants for Temple service. Each division served for a week, with Abijah’s being the eighth. Mentioned in Luke 1:5 regarding Zechariah, John the Baptist’s father.
Abraham is the patriarch of Israel, with God’s covenant promising him land, descendants, and universal blessing. His name, “Abraham” (Hebrew: אַבְרָהָם, Avraham), signifies “father of many nations.” Revered across religions, he is seen as the father of believers in Christianity (Rom. 4:11). Found in: Gen. 12–25; Matt. 1:1-2; etc.
Agabus the prophet, mentioned in Acts 11:28, foretold a famine during Claudius’ reign and warned Paul of impending suffering. Tradition holds that he was martyred in Antioch. His memory is honored on January 4 and April 8.
Agraphia (Greek ἄγραφα) refers to unwritten sayings attributed to Jesus but absent from canonical or apocryphal Gospels, noted in sources like Acts and Epistles. These sayings, preserved through early Christian tradition, reflect diverse traditions and complex canonization processes. Their authenticity is hypothetical, evaluated by theological context.
Agrippa I and II, grandsons of Herod the Great, played roles in New Testament events. Agrippa I persecuted Christians, while his son Agrippa II, familiar from Paul’s trial, witnessed the revolt against Rome. New Testament references: Agrippa I: Acts 12:1–3, 12:20–23; Agrippa II: Acts 25:13–27; 26:1–32.
Adam was the first man, made from earth. His name (Hebrew: אָדָם, Adam) connects to “earth” (אֲדָמָה, adamah), reflecting his creation from soil. Adam’s disobedience led to humanity’s fall. In Christianity, Christ is viewed as the new Adam (1 Cor. 15:22). Found in: Genesis 1–5.
Adonai (Hebrew: אֲדֹנָי, ’Adonai) is a substitute name for God, used in place of the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) in Jewish and Christian traditions. Meaning “Lord,” it conveys reverence. In the Septuagint, it is translated as Κύριος (“Lord”), appearing over 400 times in the Old Testament.
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