The Hebrew name Ben-ʼĂbîynâdâb, represented by H1125, translates to (the) son of Abinadab. It appears only 1 time in the Bible, within a single verse. Its sole function is to identify a specific Israelite who served as one of King Solomon's administrative officers.
The single appearance of H1125 is in 1 Kings 4:11, where Ben-Abinadab is listed among the twelve officers who provided provisions for the king's household. The verse specifies that his jurisdiction was "in all the region of Dor" 1 Kings 4:11. This passage also provides a key detail about his personal life and status: he "had Taphath the daughter of Solomon to wife" 1 Kings 4:11, indicating a direct marital alliance with the royal family.
The context of Ben-Abinadab's mention connects several important words that define his role and relationships:
- H5299 nâphâh (region): This word, also meaning height or coast, denotes the territory under his authority. It is used to describe the "borders of Dor" in other passages as well Joshua 11:2.
- H1756 Dôwr (Dor): Defined as a dwelling or a place in Palestine, this was the specific geographical area Ben-ʼĂbîynâdâb governed 1 Kings 4:11.
- H2955 Ṭâphath (Taphath): The personal name of his wife, who was a daughter of King Solomon 1 Kings 4:11.
- H8010 Shᵉlômôh (Solomon): The king whom Ben-ʼĂbîynâdâb served and whose daughter he married, establishing his position within the royal court 1 Kings 4:11.
- H1323 bath (daughter): This term establishes the direct familial link between his wife Taphath and King Solomon 1 Kings 4:11.
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This word formally defines his marital relationship with Taphath 1 Kings 4:11.
While not a theological term, the mention of H1125 carries significant narrative weight regarding the structure of Solomon's kingdom.
- Administrative Organization: The inclusion of Ben-ʼĂbîynâdâb in the list of officers highlights the sophisticated and organized administration during Solomon's reign, with specific officials appointed over distinct regions like Dor H1756.
- Royal Alliances: His marriage to Taphath H2955, the daughter H1323 of Solomon H8010, was likely a strategic alliance. Such marriages helped secure loyalty and consolidate power within the kingdom.
- Patrilineal Identity: The name itself, meaning "son of Abinadab," underscores the common biblical practice of identifying individuals by their father, emphasizing lineage and family history.
In summary, Ben-ʼĂbîynâdâb H1125 is a proper name that identifies a specific historical figure. Though mentioned only once, his entry in the biblical record provides a valuable glimpse into the political and social dynamics of King Solomon's court. His role as a regional governor and his marriage to a royal daughter illustrate the administrative machinery and strategic alliances that characterized one of the most prosperous eras in Israel's history.
TRV