Who was Ammiel in the Bible?

Ammiel was the father of Machir, a wealthy man from Lo-debar. He is mentioned in the context of his son providing refuge and supplies to King David during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27).

Why is Ammiel significant in the Bible?

Ammiel's significance comes through his son, Machir. His family's loyalty and provision to David in a time of crisis highlights the support network David had during his exile, fulfilling practical needs (2 Samuel 9:4-5, 17:27-29).

What key event involves Ammiel's family?

The key event is when Ammiel's son, Machir, along with others, brought beds, food, and supplies to David and his people at Mahanaim when David was fleeing from Absalom (2 Samuel 17:27-29).

Ammiel

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Ammiel was the father of Machir, who provided assistance to David during his flight from Absalom.

Ammiel

Biography

Ammiel, father of Machir, was a man of Lo-debar in the region of Transjordan during the reign of King David. When David fled Jerusalem during the revolt of his son Absalom, Ammiel's son Machir was among a small band of loyal supporters who met the king at Mahanaim and provided him with urgent supplies, food, bedding, and provisions, for David and his weary entourage (2 Samuel 17:27-29). Machir had also previously cared for Mephibosheth, Jonathan's lame son, before David brought him to the royal table. Ammiel's household, therefore, was one associated with kindness toward those in precarious situations, modeling generosity and loyalty during times of political crisis.

Significance

Ammiel's legacy is expressed through the character and conduct of his son Machir, who twice appears as a provider of aid during periods of vulnerability, first for Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:4-5) and then for David in exile. This pattern of quiet hospitality and political faithfulness illustrates how covenant loyalty can be expressed through practical compassion rather than military prowess. Ammiel's household reminds readers that the redemptive story of Israel depends not only on kings and warriors, but also on those whose loyalty and generosity sustain God's anointed servants through their darkest hours.

Authority Records

Wikidata

Verse Appearances (3)

2Sam

2Sam 9:4 2Sam 9:5 2Sam 17:27

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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