Adbeel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Ishmael, the firstborn son of Abraham and Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian maidservant. Adbeel is listed among the twelve sons of Ishmael, who are considered the progenitors of the Ishmaelite tribes. His name appears in the genealogical records that outline the descendants of Ishmael, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael's lineage.

Biblical References:

Adbeel is specifically mentioned in the Book of Genesis, which provides the primary genealogical account of Ishmael's descendants. In Genesis 25:13, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam."

Additionally, 1 Chronicles 1:29 reiterates the genealogy of Ishmael's sons, including Adbeel, as part of the chronicler's effort to document the lineage of significant biblical figures: "These are their genealogies: the firstborn of Ishmael was Nebaioth, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Adbeel, like his brothers, is considered a patriarch of one of the tribes that descended from Ishmael. The Ishmaelites are historically recognized as a nomadic people who inhabited the regions of the Arabian Peninsula. The mention of Adbeel and his brothers underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Hagar, as recorded in Genesis 16:10, where the angel of the Lord tells her, "I will greatly multiply your offspring so that they will be too numerous to count."

The Ishmaelites, including the descendants of Adbeel, played a significant role in the ancient Near Eastern world. They were known for their trade and commerce, often serving as intermediaries between different cultures and regions. The biblical narrative highlights the spread and influence of Ishmael's descendants, fulfilling God's word to Abraham in Genesis 17:20: "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him and make him fruitful and multiply him greatly. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation."

Theological Significance:

Adbeel's inclusion in the biblical genealogies serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The record of Ishmael's sons, including Adbeel, illustrates the broader narrative of God's covenantal relationships with humanity. While the primary covenantal line is traced through Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, the account of Ishmael and his descendants, including Adbeel, demonstrates God's providential care and blessing upon all of Abraham's offspring.

The mention of Adbeel and his brothers also serves as a reminder of the complex familial relationships within the biblical narrative. The account of Ishmael and Isaac, and by extension their descendants, reflects themes of sibling rivalry, divine promise, and reconciliation, which are recurrent throughout the Scriptures.

In summary, Adbeel, as a son of Ishmael, represents a key figure in the genealogical and historical tapestry of the Bible. His mention underscores the fulfillment of divine promises and the intricate relationships that shape the biblical account.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, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:29
These are their generations: The firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth; then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,
Nave's Topical Index

110. Adbeel -- "disciplined of God," the third son of Ishmael
... Adbeel. Probably from 'adab (in the sense of chastisement) and 'el; disciplined
of God; Adbeel, a son of Ishmael -- Adbeel. see HEBREW 'adab. see HEBREW 'el. ...
/hebrew/110.htm - 6kWho are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.org

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