Ahinadab is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings. His name, Ahinadab, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "my brother is noble" or "brother of willingness." He is noted for his role during the reign of King Solomon, one of the most prosperous and wise kings of Israel.

Biblical Reference:

Ahinadab is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:14, which is part of a passage detailing the administrative organization of King Solomon's kingdom. The verse states: "Ahinadab son of Iddo, in Mahanaim."

Role and Responsibilities:

Ahinadab was one of the twelve district governors appointed by King Solomon. These governors were responsible for providing provisions for the king and his household. Each governor was assigned a specific region and was tasked with supplying the king's court for one month of the year. This system of governance reflects Solomon's wisdom in organizing his kingdom efficiently and ensuring a steady supply of resources.

Ahinadab's jurisdiction was in Mahanaim, a significant location east of the Jordan River. Mahanaim held historical importance as a city of refuge and a Levitical city. It was also the place where Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was proclaimed king over Israel, and where David sought refuge during Absalom's rebellion.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The appointment of Ahinadab and the other governors highlights the administrative acumen of Solomon's reign. It underscores the centralized and organized nature of his government, which contributed to the peace and prosperity of Israel during his time. The division of the kingdom into districts for administrative purposes also reflects the broader biblical theme of order and governance under God's sovereignty.

From a theological perspective, Ahinadab's role as a governor under Solomon can be seen as part of the fulfillment of God's promise to David regarding the establishment of his son's kingdom. Solomon's reign, marked by wisdom and prosperity, is often viewed as a foreshadowing of the ultimate peace and justice that will be realized in the Messianic kingdom.

Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the role of a governor was crucial for maintaining the king's authority and ensuring the smooth operation of the kingdom. Governors like Ahinadab were often chosen from among the king's trusted officials or allies, indicating a level of trust and responsibility bestowed upon them.

Ahinadab's mention, though brief, provides insight into the complex and well-structured society of ancient Israel under Solomon's rule. It also reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through the leadership He establishes.

Conclusion:

While Ahinadab is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his role as a governor under Solomon highlights the importance of faithful service and the effective administration of God's people. His mention in the Scriptures serves as a testament to the organized and prosperous nature of Solomon's reign, which was marked by wisdom and divine favor.Ahinadab

a willing brother; brother of a vow

Ahinadab

(brother the noble , i.e. a noble brother), Son of Iddo, one of Solomon's twelve commissaries who supplied provisions for the royal household. (1 Kings 4:14) (B.C. 1014-975.)

Brother of liberality = liberal, one of the twelve commissariat officers appointed by Solomon in so many districts of his kingdom to raise supplies by monthly rotation for his household. He was appointed to the district of Mahanaim (1 Kings 4:14), east of Jordan. AHINADAB

a-hin'-a-dab ('achinadhabh, "brother of willingness," or, "my brother is willing"): Decidedly the ordinary use of the stem nadhabh is to denote willingness rather than liberality or nobleness One of Solomon's twelve commissary officers (1 Kings 4:14). He was the son of Iddo, and his district was Mahanaim.

292. Achinadab -- "my brother is noble," an official of Solomon
... "my brother is noble," an official of Solomon. Transliteration: Achinadab Phonetic
Spelling: (akh-ee-naw-dawb') Short Definition: Ahinadab. ... Ahinadab. ...
/hebrew/292.htm - 6kAhinadab (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. AHINADAB. ...Ahinadab (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:14
Ahinadab the son of Iddo, in Mahanaim; (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV ...
/a/ahinadab.htm - 7k

Iddo (14 Occurrences)
... in David's time. (3.) Timely. The father of Ahinadab, who was one of
Solomon's purveyors (1 Kings 4:14). (4.) Lovely. A prophet ...
/i/iddo.htm - 14k

Ahin'adab (1 Occurrence)
Ahin'adab. Ahinadab, Ahin'adab. Ahinoam . Multi-Version Concordance Ahin'adab
(1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:14 Ahinadab the son of Iddo, in Mahanaim; (See RSV) ...
/a/ahin'adab.htm - 6k

Mahana'im (13 Occurrences)
... thee to death with the sword. (See RSV). 1 Kings 4:14 Ahinadab the son
of Iddo, in Mahanaim; (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 6:80 and out ...
/m/mahana'im.htm - 9k

Ahi'moth (1 Occurrence)
Ahi'moth. Ahimoth, Ahi'moth. Ahinadab . Multi-Version Concordance Ahi'moth
(1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Ahimoth, Ahi'moth. Ahinadab . Reference Bible.
/a/ahi'moth.htm - 6k

Mahanaim (15 Occurrences)
... WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Kings 4:14 Ahinadab the son of Iddo, in Mahanaim; (WEB
KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles 6:80 ...
/m/mahanaim.htm - 18k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus