Topical Encyclopedia Nebai'oth is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, recognized as the firstborn son of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. His name appears in several genealogical and historical contexts, reflecting his significance in the lineage of Ishmael and the broader narrative of the descendants of Abraham.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 25:13 · Nebai'oth is introduced in the genealogical records of Ishmael's descendants: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam." This passage establishes Nebai'oth as the eldest son, indicating his prominence among Ishmael's progeny. 2. Genesis 28:9 · The text notes a marital alliance involving Nebai'oth's family: "So Esau went to Ishmael and married Mahalath, the sister of Nebaioth and daughter of Ishmael, in addition to the wives he already had." This marriage highlights the interconnectedness of the Abrahamic family lines and the significance of Nebai'oth's lineage in the broader narrative of the patriarchs. 3. 1 Chronicles 1:29 · The chronicler reiterates the genealogy of Ishmael, listing Nebai'oth first among his sons: "These are their descendants: Nebaioth the firstborn, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam." This repetition underscores the importance of maintaining the record of Ishmael's descendants. 4. Isaiah 60:7 · Nebai'oth is mentioned in a prophetic context, symbolizing the future glory and inclusion of the nations: "All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered to you; the rams of Nebaioth will serve you and go up on My altar with acceptance. I will adorn My glorious house." Here, Nebai'oth's name is associated with the wealth and offerings that will come to Zion, indicating a future reconciliation and blessing. Historical and Cultural Context: Nebai'oth is traditionally associated with the Nabataeans, an ancient Arab people who inhabited the region of modern-day Jordan and parts of Arabia. The Nabataeans are known for their advanced civilization, including the famous rock-cut city of Petra. While direct historical evidence linking Nebai'oth to the Nabataeans is limited, the association is drawn from the similarity in names and the geographical proximity of Ishmael's descendants to the Nabataean territory. Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, Nebai'oth represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael. Although Ishmael was not the child of the covenant, God assured Hagar that Ishmael would become a great nation (Genesis 21:18). Nebai'oth, as Ishmael's firstborn, signifies the beginning of this fulfillment. His mention in prophetic literature, such as Isaiah, also points to the eschatological hope that all nations, including the descendants of Ishmael, will ultimately be part of God's redemptive plan. Nebai'oth's role in the biblical text serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises and the intricate tapestry of relationships and lineages that form the backdrop of the biblical account. His inclusion in genealogies and prophecies underscores the interconnectedness of all peoples within the divine narrative. Concordance Nebai'oth (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 60:7 Thesaurus Nebai'oth (1 Occurrence)Nebai'oth. Neba'ioth, Nebai'oth. Nebajoth . Multi-Version Concordance Nebai'oth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 60:7 All the flocks of Kedar ... /n/nebai'oth.htm - 6k Neba'ioth (4 Occurrences) Nebajoth (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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