1 Samuel 14:50
And the name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain of his host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle.
Original Language Analysis
וְשֵׁ֤ם
And the name
H8034
וְשֵׁ֤ם
And the name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
1 of 14
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
בַּת
the daughter
H1323
בַּת
the daughter
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
5 of 14
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
וְשֵׁ֤ם
And the name
H8034
וְשֵׁ֤ם
And the name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
7 of 14
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
צְבָאוֹ֙
of his host
H6635
צְבָאוֹ֙
of his host
Strong's:
H6635
Word #:
9 of 14
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
11 of 14
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
Ahinoam's name means 'my brother is delight.' Military command by kinsmen was common practice, ensuring loyalty in this crucial position. Abner's role as king-maker for Ishbosheth and eventual defection to David demonstrates the importance of this relationship.
Questions for Reflection
- How does family appointment to key positions create both loyalty and future problems?
- What does this domestic information contribute to our understanding of Saul?
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Analysis & Commentary
And the name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain of his host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle.
Saul's wife Ahinoam and his military commander Abner are introduced. Abner, 'the son of Ner, Saul's uncle,' held the crucial position of army commander. This family appointment kept military power within Saul's clan but would create future conflict when Abner supported Ishbosheth against David (2 Samuel 2-3). The brief domestic information humanizes Saul while establishing relationships that will prove significant in the transition to David's reign.