Attai is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. He is identified as one of the sons of Rehoboam, the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah after the division of the united monarchy of Israel. Rehoboam was the son of Solomon and the grandson of David, making Attai a direct descendant of the Davidic line, which holds significant importance in biblical history and prophecy.

Biblical Reference:

Attai is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:10-12, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of David. The passage reads: "Solomon’s son was Rehoboam, Abijah his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son, Joram his son, Ahaziah his son, Joash his son" . While Attai is not explicitly named in this particular passage, he is listed among the sons of Rehoboam in 2 Chronicles 11:20-22, which states: "After her, he married Maacah daughter of Absalom, and she bore him Abijah, Attai, Ziza, and Shelomith. Rehoboam loved Maacah daughter of Absalom more than all his other wives and concubines. In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and he was the father of twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters. Rehoboam appointed Abijah son of Maacah as chief prince among his brothers, intending to make him king" .

Historical and Theological Context:

Attai lived during a tumultuous period in the history of Israel and Judah. His father, Rehoboam, ascended to the throne following the death of Solomon, but his harsh policies and refusal to heed the counsel of the elders led to the division of the kingdom. The ten northern tribes rebelled and formed the separate kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam, leaving Rehoboam to rule over the tribes of Judah and Benjamin in the south.

The mention of Attai in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. As a member of the royal family, Attai's existence contributes to the continuity of the Davidic line, which is central to the messianic prophecies found throughout the Old Testament. The Davidic covenant, as articulated in passages such as 2 Samuel 7:12-16, promises that David's throne will be established forever, a promise ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who is recognized in the New Testament as the Son of David.

Family Dynamics:

The family dynamics within Rehoboam's household were complex, as he had multiple wives and concubines, resulting in numerous offspring. The favoritism shown by Rehoboam towards Maacah and her son Abijah, whom he intended to succeed him, may have created tension among the siblings, including Attai. This preference is indicative of the political maneuvering and familial rivalries that often characterized royal households in the ancient Near East.

Significance:

While Attai himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the house of David. The chronicler's emphasis on lineage highlights the theological significance of God's covenantal promises and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history. Attai's place in the genealogy of Judah is a reminder of the faithfulness of God in preserving the line through which the Messiah would come.2 Chronicles 11:20
And after her he took Maachah the daughter of Absalom; which bore him Abijah, and Attai, and Ziza, and Shelomith.
Nave's Topical Index

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