Amal is a figure whose name is preserved in the meticulous genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. He is identified as a member of the tribe of Asher, a lineage often associated with prosperity and contribution to the nation of Israel.
Amal in Scripture
Amal is mentioned only once in the King James Version of the Bible, appearing in the First Book of Chronicles, which documents the family heads and military strength of the twelve tribes.
- 1 Chronicles 7:35 (KJV):“And the sons of his brother Helem; Zophah, and Imna, and Shelesh, and Amal.”
This verse establishes Amal as a son of Helem and a direct descendant of Asher, one of the original twelve sons of Jacob. While no personal deeds or events are ascribed to him, his inclusion is significant as it anchors his descendants within the covenant community of Israel.
The Significance of His Name and Tribe
- Meaning of the Name: The Hebrew name Amal ($\text{\textquoteleft\text{ฤmฤl}}$) is generally translated to mean “labour,” “toil,” or “trouble.” This name, in the context of the greater biblical narrative, subtly reminds the reader that even within the promised inheritance and blessed tribes of Israel, a life of diligent work and effort was still the lot of man, as pronounced since the fall (Genesis 3:19).
- Tribe of Asher: Amal belongs to the tribe of Asher. When Jacob gave his blessing, he said of Asher: “Out of Asher his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties” (Genesis 49:20, KJV). The Asherites were known for occupying a fertile area in the north of Israel, a land of abundance. Amalโs name, meaning “labour” or “toil,” stands as a foundational truth: even a blessed, prosperous inheritance requires diligent effort and hard work to be maintained and harvested.
Prophetic Hotspot: The Labour of the Saints
The name Amal, meaning “labour” or “toil,” draws a powerful connection to the work required of God’s people throughout all ages, leading up to the great consummation of the agesโthe Second Advent.
Though the final rest of the saints is assured (Hebrews 4:9), Scripture consistently calls us to active service until the Lordโs Return. This service, or “labour,” is not done in vain.
1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV):
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.“
Amal’s name encapsulates the reality that our spiritual inheritanceโthe truth of the Gospel and the promise of the Kingdomโrequires our committed and diligent labour to share and defend.
The Return Question: Diligence in Expectation
Question for Discussion: The descendants of Amal, despite their ancestorโs name meaning “toil,” were listed among the “mighty men of valour” in the tribal census (1 Chronicles 7:40). This suggests that their persistent labour prepared them for a time of action and readiness. How should the knowledge of the Lordโs imminent Return influence the quality and diligence of our current spiritual “labour” (or toil) in serving His church and spreading His message? Should the expectancy of glory lead to patient service, or to a frenzied, anxious effort?