Matthew 1:4 (KJV)

What does Matthew 1:4 mean?

Matthew 1:4 lists part of Jesus’ genealogy, stating that Aram was the father of Aminadab, Aminadab was the father of Naasson, and Naasson was the father of Salmon. This verse is one link in the chain tracing Jesus’ ancestry through specific generations.

Matthew, writing to a Jewish audience, is presenting the family line of Jesus to show His connection to key figures in Israel’s history. By naming these ancestors, Matthew roots Jesus firmly within the story of God’s people, emphasizing the continuity from the Old Testament to the coming of Christ.

The Greek behind Matthew 1:4

• The Greek word "ἐγέννησεν" (egenēsen, G1080), translated as "begat," often carries the sense of fathering or becoming the ancestor of someone. In genealogies like this, it can sometimes skip generations, focusing on key family links rather than every single descendant.
• The conjunction "δέ" (de, G1161), translated as "and," is used repeatedly to connect each name, giving the genealogy a steady, rhythmic flow that emphasizes the unbroken line.
• The names "Ἀράμ" (Aram, G689), "Ἀμιναδάβ" (Aminadab, G284), "Ναασσών" (Naasson, G3476), and "Σαλμών" (Salmon, G4533) are Greek forms of Old Testament names, showing how Matthew adapts Hebrew names for his Greek-speaking readers while preserving their identity.

Why Matthew 1:4 matters

• Matthew 1:4 helps clarify that Jesus’ family line is rooted in real historical figures recognized by Jewish tradition, not in myth or legend.
• By including these specific names, Matthew connects Jesus to the Exodus and wilderness period, since Aminadab and Naasson are associated with the generation that entered the Promised Land.
• This verse is part of Matthew’s larger effort to show Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, linking Him to the broader story of salvation history.