Adriel, identified as the son of Barzillai the Meholathite, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament. His account is intertwined with the early monarchy of Israel, particularly during the reign of King Saul and the subsequent transition to King David.

Biblical References:

Adriel is primarily mentioned in the context of his marriage to Merab, the daughter of King Saul. In 1 Samuel 18:19 , it is recorded: "So when the time came for Merab, Saul’s daughter, to be given to David, she was given in marriage to Adriel of Meholah." This passage highlights a significant moment where Saul, despite his earlier promise to give Merab to David, instead gives her to Adriel. This act is indicative of Saul's complex relationship with David, marked by jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and success.

The marriage of Adriel and Merab is further noted in 2 Samuel 21:8 , which states: "But the king took the two sons of Rizpah daughter of Aiah, whom she had borne to Saul—Armoni and Mephibosheth—and the five sons of Merab daughter of Saul, whom she had borne to Adriel son of Barzillai the Meholathite." This verse is part of a narrative where King David seeks to address a famine in the land by avenging the Gibeonites, who had been wronged by Saul. The Gibeonites demand justice, and David hands over seven of Saul's descendants, including the five sons of Merab and Adriel, to be executed.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Adriel's designation as "the Meholathite" suggests his origin from Abel Meholah, a town in the Jordan Valley. This region is noted in the biblical narrative as the home of the prophet Elisha (1 Kings 19:16). The mention of Adriel's father, Barzillai, should not be confused with Barzillai the Gileadite, who supported David during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27). The distinction is important for understanding the different familial and tribal affiliations within the biblical text.

The marriage of Adriel to Merab, Saul's daughter, would have been a politically significant alliance, reflecting the customs of the time where marriages often served to strengthen political ties and consolidate power. However, the tragic fate of their sons, as recorded in 2 Samuel 21, underscores the turbulent and often violent nature of dynastic politics in ancient Israel.

Theological Implications:

Adriel's account, though brief, is part of the larger narrative of God's providence and justice in the history of Israel. The events surrounding his family highlight the consequences of Saul's disobedience and the fulfillment of divine justice. The execution of Adriel's sons, while difficult to comprehend from a modern perspective, is portrayed in the biblical text as a necessary act to atone for Saul's breach of covenant with the Gibeonites, thus restoring divine favor to the land.

In summary, Adriel son of Barzillai the Meholathite is a minor yet significant character within the biblical narrative, whose life and family are intricately connected to the unfolding account of Israel's monarchy and God's sovereign plans for His people.