Ibhar is one of the lesser-known sons of King David, the second king of Israel, who reigned after Saul. His name appears in the genealogical records of David's descendants, providing insight into the royal lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises to David.

Biblical References:

Ibhar is mentioned in two primary passages of the Old Testament. The first reference is found in the book of 2 Samuel, which provides a list of David's sons born to him in Jerusalem:

· "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet." (2 Samuel 5:14-16)

The second reference is in the book of 1 Chronicles, which also records the genealogy of David's family:

· "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet." (1 Chronicles 3:5-8)

Historical and Theological Context:

Ibhar was born during David's reign in Jerusalem, a period marked by the consolidation of the kingdom of Israel and the establishment of Jerusalem as its political and spiritual center. David's reign is significant in biblical history as it represents the unification of the tribes of Israel and the establishment of a dynasty that would ultimately lead to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, from the line of David.

The mention of Ibhar, along with his brothers, underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant with David, in which God promised to establish David's throne and kingdom forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Although Ibhar himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the importance of David's lineage in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

Name Meaning and Significance:

The name Ibhar is of Hebrew origin and is thought to mean "He chooses" or "He elects." This name may reflect the divine election and favor that characterized David's family, as God chose David and his descendants for a special purpose in the history of Israel and the world.

Role in David's Family:

While the Bible does not provide specific details about Ibhar's life or his role within David's family, his mention alongside his brothers suggests that he was part of the royal household and shared in the privileges and responsibilities of being a son of the king. The sons of David, including Ibhar, would have been raised in the royal court, receiving education and training befitting their status as potential heirs to the throne.

Conclusion:

Ibhar's presence in the biblical genealogies serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's promises and the significance of David's lineage in the broader narrative of Scripture. Though not a central figure, Ibhar's inclusion in the sacred text underscores the importance of every member of David's family in the unfolding account of God's covenantal faithfulness.2 Samuel 5:15
Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 3:6
Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 14:5
And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,
Nave's Topical Index

2984. Yibchar -- "He chooses," a son of David
... Word Origin from bachar Definition "He chooses," a son of David NASB Word Usage
Ibhar (3). Ibhar. From bachar; choice; Jibchar, an Israelite -- Ibhar. ...
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