Κίς

Kish

Definition

Κίς (Kish) is the name of a significant figure in Israelite history, the father of King Saul. In the New Testament, he is mentioned in Acts 13:21 as part of the historical summary of Israel's transition from judges to monarchy. The name itself is a transliteration of the Hebrew name קִישׁ (Qîš), meaning 'bow' or 'power.' While the New Testament reference is brief, it directly connects to the Old Testament narrative where Kish is identified as a Benjamite, a man of wealth and standing, whose son Saul became Israel's first king (1 Samuel 9:1-2).

Biblical Usage

This proper noun is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 13:21. It appears in a historical recounting by the Apostle Paul during his sermon in Pisidian Antioch. Paul references Kish specifically to establish the lineage of Saul, the first king of Israel, as part of his argument tracing God's redemptive plan through Israel's history toward the coming of Jesus, the promised Savior from David's line.

Etymology

Κίς is a direct Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name קִישׁ (Qîš, Strong's H7027). The Hebrew name likely derives from the root meaning 'to lay a snare' or 'bow,' possibly connoting strength or power. The Greek New Testament simply adopts the Hebrew name phonetically without translating its meaning, a common practice for personal names.

Semantic Range

While the name itself is not theologically loaded, its mention in Acts 13:21 is theologically significant. Paul uses Kish to anchor King Saul in Israel's historical narrative, setting a contrast between Saul's failed kingship and the Davidic kingship from which the Messiah would come. This highlights the biblical theme of God's sovereign guidance of history, working through human lineages and even flawed figures to fulfill His promises. Understanding that this is a direct link to the Old Testament narrative enriches the reading of Acts by showing the continuity of God's plan.

In its original context, being identified as 'Kish, the father of Saul' immediately conveyed specific cultural information to a Jewish audience. It identified Saul's tribal lineage (Benjamin) and social standing, as Kish is described in 1 Samuel as a 'mighty man of power' or a man of wealth. This established Saul's pedigree as a suitable candidate for kingship in the eyes of the people, contrasting with God's later choice of David, who came from a humbler background.

There are no direct synonyms for this proper name. Related figures include: Σαούλ (Saoul, G4549) — Saul, the son of Kish; Δαυίδ (Dauid, G1138) — David, the king who succeeded Saul.

Word Details

Scripture References