Background and Family Lineage:
Abinadab is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Jesse, the Bethlehemite. Jesse is most notably recognized as the father of David, the future king of Israel. Abinadab is one of David's older brothers, and his name is often listed among Jesse's sons in the genealogical records.

Biblical References:
Abinadab is mentioned in several passages within the context of his family and the anointing of David. The primary references to Abinadab can be found in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.

1. 1 Samuel 16:8 : "Then Jesse called Abinadab and presented him to Samuel, who said, 'The LORD has not chosen this one either.'"
· In this passage, the prophet Samuel visits Jesse's household to anoint the next king of Israel, as instructed by God. Jesse presents his sons to Samuel, starting with the eldest. Abinadab, being one of the older sons, is presented after Eliab, but God does not choose him.

2. 1 Samuel 17:13 : "The three older sons of Jesse had followed Saul into battle: The firstborn was Eliab, the second was Abinadab, and the third was Shammah."
· This verse provides insight into the military involvement of Jesse's sons. Abinadab, along with his brothers Eliab and Shammah, follows King Saul into battle against the Philistines. This context sets the stage for the famous encounter between David and Goliath, where David, the youngest son, emerges as a hero.

3. 1 Chronicles 2:13 : "Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was the second son, Shimea the third,"
· This genealogical record in 1 Chronicles confirms Abinadab's position as the second son of Jesse, following Eliab.

Role and Significance:
Abinadab's role in the biblical narrative is primarily as a member of Jesse's family, providing context for the anointing of David and the dynamics within the family. While he is not chosen as king, his presence in the account highlights the divine selection of David, the youngest and seemingly least likely candidate, as God's chosen leader for Israel.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The mention of Abinadab and his brothers in the context of military service under King Saul reflects the societal expectations and roles of men in ancient Israel. As part of a prominent family in Bethlehem, Abinadab's involvement in the army underscores the family's status and commitment to the nation's defense.

Name Meaning:
The name "Abinadab" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "my father is noble" or "father of generosity." This name reflects the cultural importance of lineage and the attributes associated with one's family and heritage in ancient Israelite society.1 Samuel 16:8
Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither has the LORD chosen this.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 17:13
And the three oldest sons of Jesse went and followed Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons that went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah.
Nave's Topical Index

The Story of David, the Shepherd Boy
... Then Jesse's second son, named Abinadab, passed by. And the Lord said: "I have
not chosen this one." Seven young men came and Samuel said: ...
/.../marshall/the wonder book of bible stories/the story of david the.htm

The History of Saul
... and he said that he was son of Jesse of Bethlehem ... said then to David: Blessed be
thou, my son David ... Saul and his sons, and slew Jonathan and Abinadab, and Melchi ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of saul.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Pharaohs"The Libyan mercenaries and their predominance in the state: the origin
of the XXIInd (Bubastite) dynasty"Sheshonq I. as king and his son Auputi as ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

How many brothers did King David have? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Jonathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Gibeah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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