אֲבִינָדָב
a.vi.na.dav
Abinadab
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word אֲבִינָדָב (a.vi.na.dav) is a proper name, Abinadab, meaning "my father is nobility." It appears three times in the Bible. As a personal name, Abinadab holds significant meaning, particularly in relation to the nobility or prestige associated with its bearer. The prefix "Abi-" translates to "my father," implying a direct connection to one's ancestral heritage. The use of this name highlights the importance of family lineage and nobility within ancient Hebrew culture. It suggests that the bearer of this name was considered esteemed or held a position of authority within their community. The repetition of this name throughout the Bible underscores its significance, potentially linking Abinadab to notable events or individuals. The limited occurrences of the name Abinadab in the Bible underscore its personal significance, rather than serving a broader conceptual or theological purpose. Its appearance is likely indicative of a specific individual or family, rather than a widespread cultural or symbolic theme.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
3 total occurrences across the text
The three oldest sons of Jesse had gone after Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons who went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah.
1 Samuel 16:8Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. He said, “Yahweh has not chosen this one, either.”
1 Chronicles 2:13and Jesse became the father of his firstborn Eliab, and Abinadab the second, and Shimea the third,