1 Samuel 14:51
And Kish was the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel.
Original Language Analysis
אֲבִֽי
the father
H1
אֲבִֽי
the father
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
2 of 8
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
אֲבִֽי
the father
H1
אֲבִֽי
the father
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
5 of 8
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
Cross References
1 Samuel 9:1Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.1 Samuel 9:21And Saul answered and said, Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern genealogies served political as well as historical purposes. Establishing Abner's relationship to Saul clarified his authority to act on behalf of the royal house. These kinship ties bound obligations that transcended individual choices.
Questions for Reflection
- How do family relationships continue to shape events beyond individuals' intentions?
- What does the genealogical information suggest about the tribal nature of Israelite politics?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And Kish was the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel.
The genealogical connection - 'Kish was the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel' - clarifies family relationships that will prove important. Saul and Abner were cousins, explaining both their close alliance and Abner's later capacity to act independently in supporting Ishbosheth. The household connections established here continue to influence Israelite politics long after Saul's death. Family structure in ancient Israel carried political implications.