Topical Encyclopedia Kish, also known as Cis in some translations, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, primarily recognized as the father of Saul, the first king of Israel. His account is primarily found in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.Genealogy and Family Background Kish was a Benjamite, belonging to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His lineage is detailed in 1 Samuel 9:1: "Now there was a man of Benjamin named Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite of standing." This genealogy highlights Kish's noble standing within the tribe, suggesting a family of some prominence and influence. Role in the Narrative of Saul Kish's most notable role in the biblical narrative is as the father of Saul. In 1 Samuel 9, Kish sends his son Saul to find his lost donkeys, an errand that leads Saul to the prophet Samuel. This seemingly mundane task sets the stage for Saul's anointing as king over Israel. The text states, "One day the donkeys of Saul’s father Kish wandered off, and Kish said to his son Saul, 'Take one of the servants and go look for the donkeys'" (1 Samuel 9:3). This event underscores the providential nature of Saul's rise to kingship, orchestrated by God through ordinary circumstances. Kish's Legacy While Kish himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative beyond his connection to Saul, his legacy is cemented through his son. Saul's kingship marks a significant transition in Israel's history from a theocratic system of judges to a monarchy. Kish's lineage is further mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:1, where it is noted that some of Saul's relatives joined David at Ziklag, indicating the continued influence of Kish's family line. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, Kish's status as a "man of standing" (1 Samuel 9:1) suggests he was a person of wealth and influence. This status would have afforded his family certain privileges and responsibilities within the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe itself was known for its fierce warriors and played a crucial role in the early history of Israel. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, Kish's role as the father of Saul highlights the theme of divine sovereignty and election. Despite Saul's eventual failure as king, his anointing was part of God's plan for Israel. Kish's involvement, though indirect, serves as a reminder of how God uses individuals and families to fulfill His purposes in history. In summary, Kish, the father of Saul, is a figure whose significance is derived from his connection to the first king of Israel. His account, though brief, is integral to the unfolding narrative of Israel's transition to monarchy and the divine orchestration of leadership in the nation. Nave's Topical Index Acts 13:21And afterward they desired a king: and God gave to them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. Nave's Topical Index Greek 2797. Kis -- Kish, the father of King Saul ... Word Origin of Hebrew origin Qish Definition Kish, the father of King Saul NASB Word Usage Kish (1). Kish. Of Hebrew origin (Qiysh); Cis (ie Kish), an Israelite ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2797.htm - 6k Resources Who was Mordecai in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Saul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Saul is also among the prophets? | GotQuestions.org Kish: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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