Ishmael
Ishmael was a descendant of Benjamin through King Saul's line (1Ch.8.38, 9.44).
Biography
This Ishmael appears in the genealogical records of Benjamin as a descendant in the line of King Saul, listed among the sons of Azel in 1 Chronicles 8:38 and again in the parallel genealogy of 1 Chronicles 9:44. He is one of six sons named in Azel's household, which itself descended from Meribbaal (also known as Mephibosheth), the son of Jonathan son of Saul. The repetition of this genealogy in both chapters underscores its particular importance for the post-exilic community, preserving the memory of Saul's dynastic line even after the monarchy had shifted permanently to the house of David. Ishmael's place in this lineage connects him to one of the most storied dynasties in Israelite history.
Significance
The survival and recording of Saul's descendants, including this Ishmael, carries significant theological meaning. Despite Saul's tragic end and the transfer of the kingdom to David, God's preservation of Saul's line demonstrates divine faithfulness to his broader covenant purposes, even toward those who failed in their calling. The Chronicler's inclusion of this genealogy in the post-exilic context assured returning Israelites that family identity and heritage were not erased by historical tragedy or divine judgment. Ishmael's listing among Azel's sons shows that even minor members of fallen dynasties retain their place in the biblical record, a testimony to God's comprehensive remembrance of his people.
Verse Appearances (2)
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]