Matthew 1:10 (KJV)

What does Matthew 1:10 mean?

Matthew 1:10 lists part of Jesus’ family line, naming Ezekias (Hezekiah), his son Manasses (Manasseh), then Amon, and finally Josias (Josiah). This verse is one link in the genealogy Matthew gives to show Jesus’ royal ancestry through the kings of Judah.

Matthew, writing to a Jewish audience, is tracing Jesus’ lineage through David’s royal descendants. The verse highlights the continuity of the family line, even through kings with mixed reputations. By including these names, Matthew connects Jesus to Israel’s history and the promises given to David’s house.

The Greek behind Matthew 1:10

• The Greek word ἐγέννησεν (egenēsen, “begat”) is used repeatedly in this genealogy. It often means “became the father of,” emphasizing a direct line of descent rather than just distant ancestry.
• The names Μανασσῆς (Manasses, “Manasseh”), Ἀμώς (Amon), and Ἰωσίας (Josias, “Josiah”) are given in their Greek forms. These names would have reminded Jewish readers of specific Old Testament kings, some of whom were known for both faithfulness and failure.

Why Matthew 1:10 matters

• Matthew 1:10 shows that Jesus’ ancestry includes both righteous and deeply flawed kings, underlining that God’s plan works through all kinds of people and histories.
• By naming Josiah, a king remembered for religious reform, Matthew points to moments of hope and renewal in Israel’s story, which his readers would recognize.
• This verse helps anchor Jesus’ story in real, traceable history, connecting him to the promises made to David’s descendants and setting up Matthew’s case for Jesus as the Messiah.