What does the Bible say about Arabs?

Origins in the Lineage of Abraham

The earliest biblical references to the peoples broadly associated with Arabs begin with Abraham’s family line. Multiple passages in Genesis describe how Abraham’s descendants through Ishmael and through several of Keturah’s sons settled in regions often identified with the Arabian Peninsula.

Genesis links Ishmael to specific tribal names that the text describes as dwelling east of Egypt, toward Assyria, in a region that would later encompass much of Arabia. In Genesis 17:20, God says, “As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him; I will make him fruitful and will multiply him greatly. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation.” Ishmael’s descendants are then listed in Genesis 25:13–16. These names—such as Nebaioth and Kedar—are later associated with nomadic tribes in the Arabian region (cf. Isaiah 60:7).

Additionally, Genesis 25:1–4 notes that Abraham had other children by Keturah, including Midian (whose people dwelled east of the Jordan, sometimes overlapping with what geography would later call Arabia). The presence of Midianites in areas south and east of Canaan, near the Arabian desert, has led many to include them among the early branches of Arab peoples.

Arabian Tribes and Geography in the Old Testament

The Old Testament contains several references to “Arabia” and people who dwelled there:

• Isaiah 21:13 speaks of a “burden against Arabia,” indicating prophetic words concerning events in “the thickets of Arabia.”

• Jeremiah 25:24 refers to “all the kings of Arabia and all the kings of the mixed peoples who dwell in the desert.”

• Ezekiel 27:21 names “Arabia and all the princes of Kedar” among those who traded with Tyre.

These texts convey that the region was a vast area of trade, pastoralism, and shifting tribal alliances. The mention of Kedar and Dedan (Genesis 25:13; Jeremiah 49:28; Ezekiel 25:13) ties various geographic locations to the broader lineage stemming from Abraham and situates them among the Arabian peoples.

Interaction with Israel and Surrounding Nations

Biblical narratives portray a complex relationship between Israel and neighboring groups linked to Ishmael, Esau, and Keturah’s offspring. Sometimes, alliances formed between Israel’s kings and certain Arab tribes, and in other instances, conflicts arose. For example:

• 2 Chronicles 17:11 records King Jehoshaphat receiving tributes from surrounding peoples, including from among Arabs, indicating some level of diplomatic contact.

• 2 Chronicles 21:16–17 describes Arabs allied with the Philistines in raiding Judah during the reign of Jehoram.

These historical accounts demonstrate that while the Israelites and Arab tribes occasionally cooperated, political and military tensions also occurred.

Prophetic Writings and Blessings

Although some prophetic oracles address judgment on regions in Arabia (e.g., Isaiah 21:13–17; Jeremiah 49:28–33), the Scriptures consistently note how God remains sovereign over all nations. In the broader sweep of prophecy, the peoples of Arabia are included within God’s redemptive plan. Isaiah 60:6–7 poetically envisions “all those from Sheba” bringing gold and incense in worship to the Lord, while “the flocks of Kedar” and “the rams of Nebaioth” are offered acceptably. The text depicts a future when people from Arabian regions draw near to honor God.

New Testament Mentions and the Spread of the Gospel

The New Testament also references Arabs, notably in relation to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Acts 2:11 expressly states that among the multitude who heard the disciples “declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues” were “Cretans and Arabs.” This inclusion is significant: it shows that from the initial moments of the Christian church, people from Arabia were present to hear and respond to the gospel message.

Furthermore, the Apostle Paul recounts a period of ministry in “Arabia” (Galatians 1:17), though details about that time remain partially veiled. The scant references still confirm that the area we identify as Arabia was within the scope of New Testament mission and testimony.

Archaeological and Historical Corroboration

Historically, numerous inscriptions and archaeological findings in the Arabian Peninsula align with names found in biblical records. Tribes such as Kedar, Dedan (associated with the oasis of Al-‘Ula in modern-day Saudi Arabia), and Midian have been correlated by scholars with scriptural texts. These convergences bolster the view that biblical references to southern and eastern desert regions correspond to what would become recognized as Arab tribal populations.

Overarching Themes and Theological Significance

1. God’s Sovereign Care: Ishmael’s story in Genesis 16–17 and 21 underscores God’s purposeful plan and blessing, even beyond the primary covenant line through Isaac. While Scripture focuses primarily on the covenant with Isaac, it consistently acknowledges God’s care for Ishmael and his descendants.

2. Inclusion within Prophecy: Old Testament prophecies weave Arab peoples into the grand narrative of redemption. Although certain judgments are pronounced, there are also promises regarding restoration and worship.

3. Widening the Gospel: Acts 2 shows how Arabs, along with peoples from around the known world, were present at the dawn of the church. The Bible’s central message is not restricted by ethnicity or geography.

4. Historical Connection to Abraham: Many biblical references link peoples of the Arabian Peninsula to Abraham. These genealogical and geographical notes underscore the significance of Abraham’s role as the patriarch of multiple nations.

Conclusion

Biblical references to Arabs and Arabia span from the earliest patriarchal accounts in Genesis through the prophecies of the Old Testament, and into the New Testament era where the gospel message spreads to every corner of the known world. While the biblical text highlights interactions—sometimes friendly, sometimes tense—between the Israelites and these neighboring tribes, it also provides a vision of inclusive blessing. The Scriptures show that God’s promises extend to all nations, including the Arabs descending from Abraham through Ishmael, Keturah, and other lines.

Throughout the Bible, the overarching testimony is that all peoples—regardless of their specific descent—are invited to seek and know the Creator. Thus, the biblical perspective on Arabs is one of deep historic connection to Abraham, varied relationships with Israel, prophetic inclusion in divine purposes, and participation in the earliest growth of the Christian church.