Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Shaul is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, referring to different individuals. The name Shaul is of Hebrew origin, meaning "asked for" or "prayed for." This entry explores the various occurrences of the name Shaul in the Bible, providing context and significance for each mention. 1. Shaul, Son of Simeon: Shaul is first mentioned as a descendant of Jacob through his son Simeon. In Genesis 46:10, the Bible records, "The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman." This Shaul is noted for being the son of a Canaanite woman, which is significant given the Israelites' later emphasis on maintaining distinctiveness from the Canaanite peoples. The genealogical listing in Exodus 6:15 and 1 Chronicles 4:24 also includes Shaul, affirming his place within the tribe of Simeon. 2. Shaul, King of Edom: Another Shaul is mentioned in the context of the Edomite kings. In Genesis 36:37-38, the Bible states, "When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the river succeeded him as king. When Shaul died, Baal-hanan son of Achbor succeeded him as king." This Shaul was a ruler in Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. The mention of Shaul in the Edomite king list highlights the interconnectedness of the nations surrounding Israel and the broader narrative of God's dealings with the descendants of Abraham. 3. Shaul, the Benjamite: In 1 Chronicles 8:29-30, Shaul is listed as a descendant of Benjamin: "Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon. His wife’s name was Maacah, and Abdon was his firstborn son, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, Gedor, Ahio, Zechariah, and Mikloth. Mikloth was the father of Shimeah. These also lived alongside their relatives in Jerusalem." This Shaul is part of the genealogical record of the tribe of Benjamin, which is significant given the tribe's later prominence in Israel's history, particularly through King Saul, the first king of Israel, who was also a Benjamite. Significance in Biblical Narrative: The name Shaul, appearing in various contexts, reflects the diverse roles and backgrounds of individuals within the biblical narrative. From a son of Simeon to a king of Edom, and a Benjamite, each Shaul contributes to the tapestry of Israel's history and its interactions with surrounding nations. The inclusion of these individuals in genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical worldview, as well as the unfolding of God's covenant promises through the generations. Concordance Shaul's (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 4:25 Thesaurus Shaul's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Shaul's (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:25 Shallum his son, Mibsam his son, Mishma his son. (See NIV). ... /s/shaul's.htm - 6k Shave (19 Occurrences) Sha'ulites (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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