Question

The subtitle of Psalm 34 has the name Abimelech, but should not the name be Achish?

Answer

The historical context of this Psalm may be seen in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Abimelech is probably a royal title for the king and not his proper name, which is Achish. It was not uncommon to have more than one name: Gideon was also Jerubbaal (Judg. 6:32; 7:1) and Solomon was also Jedidiah (2 Sam. 12:25).

Answer by Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr.

Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr., D.D., M.Div. is the Theological Editor at Third Millennium Ministries (Thirdmill).