Topical Encyclopedia Nebaioth, the firstborn son of Ishmael, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the pastoral and nomadic lifestyle of his descendants. The name Nebaioth is often associated with regions known for their flocks and herds, especially sheep, which were central to the economy and culture of the ancient Near East.Biblical References: Nebaioth is mentioned in the context of the genealogies and territorial inheritances of the descendants of Ishmael. In Genesis 25:13, the Berean Standard Bible states: "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 highlights Nebaioth as the progenitor of a tribe that would become known for its wealth in livestock. The prophet Isaiah also references Nebaioth in a vision of future prosperity and divine blessing. Isaiah 60:7 declares: "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." This verse underscores the significance of Nebaioth's descendants in the context of sacrificial offerings and worship, indicating their abundance in sheep and rams. Cultural and Historical Context: The descendants of Nebaioth, like many other nomadic tribes in the Arabian Peninsula, were renowned for their pastoral lifestyle. Sheep were a vital resource, providing wool, meat, and milk, and were often used in trade and religious sacrifices. The mention of Nebaioth alongside Kedar, another prominent Ishmaelite tribe, suggests a region rich in pastoral resources, contributing to the wealth and influence of these tribes. The association of Nebaioth with sheep and rams in Isaiah's prophecy reflects the broader biblical theme of God's provision and the use of livestock in worship. The imagery of flocks and herds being brought to God's altar symbolizes the integration of daily life and spiritual devotion, a concept deeply rooted in the agrarian and pastoral societies of the biblical world. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Nebaioth in the context of sacrificial offerings points to the broader biblical narrative of redemption and worship. The use of sheep and rams in sacrifices foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The prosperity and abundance of Nebaioth's flocks serve as a reminder of God's blessings and the call to offer the best of what one has in service to the Lord. In summary, Nebaioth is celebrated in the Bible as a place and people known for their sheep, reflecting both the material wealth and spiritual significance of livestock in the ancient world. The legacy of Nebaioth's descendants continues to be a testament to the enduring themes of provision, sacrifice, and worship in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 60:7All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you: they shall come up with acceptance on my altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory. Torrey's Topical Textbook Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |