Nebajoth is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, recognized as the firstborn son of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. His name appears in genealogical records and is associated with the Ishmaelite tribes. The name "Nebajoth" is often interpreted to mean "heights" or "fruitfulness," reflecting the prosperity and prominence of his descendants.

Biblical References

Nebajoth is first mentioned in Genesis 25:13, which lists the sons of Ishmael: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebajoth the firstborn of Ishmael, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam." . This passage establishes Nebajoth as the eldest son, indicating his significance within the Ishmaelite lineage.

In 1 Chronicles 1:29, Nebajoth is again listed among the sons of Ishmael: "These are their genealogies: the firstborn of Ishmael, Nebajoth; then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam." . This repetition underscores the importance of Nebajoth's role in the genealogical records of the tribes descending from Ishmael.

Historical and Cultural Context

Nebajoth's descendants are believed to have formed one of the prominent tribes of the Ishmaelites, who were known for their nomadic lifestyle and trade across the Arabian Peninsula. The Ishmaelites, including the tribe of Nebajoth, played a significant role in the ancient Near Eastern trade networks, particularly in the transport of spices, incense, and other goods.

The mention of Nebajoth in Isaiah 60:7 highlights the wealth and prosperity associated with his descendants: "All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered to you; the rams of Nebaioth will serve you and go up on My altar with acceptance; I will adorn My glorious house." . This prophetic vision speaks of a future time when the wealth of the nations, including the offerings from Nebajoth's tribe, will be brought to honor the Lord.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Nebajoth's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael. In Genesis 17:20, God assures Abraham, "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will multiply him greatly. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation." . Nebajoth, as Ishmael's firstborn, represents the beginning of this fulfillment, as his descendants contribute to the formation of a great nation.

Nebajoth's legacy is also seen in the broader context of God's plan for the nations. The inclusion of Ishmael's descendants in the prophetic vision of Isaiah 60 suggests that God's redemptive purposes extend beyond Israel to encompass all peoples, including those from the line of Ishmael. This reflects the biblical theme of God's universal sovereignty and the ultimate gathering of all nations to worship Him.

Conclusion

While Nebajoth himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his role as the progenitor of a significant Ishmaelite tribe highlights the interconnectedness of the biblical genealogies and the fulfillment of divine promises. His descendants' involvement in trade and their mention in prophetic literature illustrate the broader impact of Ishmael's lineage in the ancient world and in God's redemptive history.5032. Nebayoth -- oldest son of Ishmael, also his desc.
... Nebaioth. Word Origin from nabat Definition oldest son of Ishmael, also his
desc. NASB Word Usage Nebaioth (5). Nebaioth, Nebajoth. Or ...
/hebrew/5032.htm - 6kNebajoth (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Nebajoth (3 Occurrences). ... (KJV WBS YLT). Genesis 36:3 And
Bashemath Ishmael's daughter, sister of Nebajoth. (KJV WBS YLT). ...
/n/nebajoth.htm - 7k

Nebai'oth (1 Occurrence)
Nebai'oth. Neba'ioth, Nebai'oth. Nebajoth . Multi-Version Concordance
Nebai'oth (1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Neba'ioth, Nebai'oth. Nebajoth . Reference
/n/nebai'oth.htm - 6k

Neballat (1 Occurrence)

/n/neballat.htm - 7k

Births (34 Occurrences)
... Genesis 25:13 and these 'are' the names of the sons of Ishmael, by their names,
according to their births: first-born of Ishmael, Nebajoth; and Kedar, and ...
/b/births.htm - 17k

Bashemath (6 Occurrences)
... the Hittite: (KJV WBS YLT). Genesis 36:3 And Bashemath Ishmael's daughter,
sister of Nebajoth. (KJV WBS YLT). Genesis 36:4 And Adah ...
/b/bashemath.htm - 10k

Generations (148 Occurrences)
... Genesis 25:13 And these are the names of the sons of Ishmael, by their names, according
to their generations: the firstborn of Ishmael, Nebajoth; and Kedar ...
/g/generations.htm - 40k

Taketh (398 Occurrences)
... Genesis 28:9 and Esau goeth unto Ishmael, and taketh Mahalath, daughter of Ishmael,
Abraham's son, sister of Nebajoth, unto his wives, to himself, for a wife. ...
/t/taketh.htm - 35k

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