Mibsam 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. Mibsam is part of the genealogical records that trace the descendants of Ishmael, who is recognized as the progenitor of several Arab tribes. His name appears in the context of the broader narrative of God's promises to Abraham and the unfolding of the Abrahamic lineage.

Biblical References:

Mibsam is specifically mentioned in two passages of the Bible:

1. Genesis 25:13 · "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam," .

2. 1 Chronicles 1:29 · "These are their genealogies: the firstborn of Ishmael was Nebaioth, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam," .

In both references, Mibsam is listed as one of the twelve sons of Ishmael. The listing of Ishmael's sons is significant as it fulfills God's promise to Hagar that Ishmael would become a great nation (Genesis 21:18). The twelve sons of Ishmael are often seen as the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Ishmaelites, paralleling the twelve tribes of Israel descended from Jacob.

Historical and Theological Context:

The mention of Mibsam and his brothers serves to highlight the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises. While Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, is the child of promise through whom the covenant would be established (Genesis 17:19), Ishmael is also blessed by God. In Genesis 17:20, God promises Abraham that Ishmael will be fruitful and multiply exceedingly, becoming the father of twelve princes and a great nation.

Mibsam's inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His word. Despite the complex family dynamics and human failings, God's purposes prevail, and His promises are realized across generations.

Cultural and Genealogical Significance:

The descendants of Ishmael, including Mibsam, are traditionally associated with various Arab tribes. The genealogies in Genesis and 1 Chronicles serve not only as historical records but also as a means of establishing identity and heritage for the people of the ancient Near East. These records would have been crucial for the Israelites in understanding their own place within the broader tapestry of God's plan for humanity.

Mibsam's name, like those of his brothers, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history, illustrating the diverse and multifaceted nature of God's interactions with humanity. While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Mibsam's life or deeds, his mention in the genealogical lists affirms his role in the unfolding narrative of God's promises to Abraham and his descendants.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

4017. Mibsam -- a son of Ishmael, also a Simeonite
... 4016, 4017. Mibsam. 4018 . a son of Ishmael, also a Simeonite. Transliteration:
Mibsam Phonetic Spelling: (mib-sawm') Short Definition: Mibsam. ...
/hebrew/4017.htm - 6k

Chapter xxv
... This is the history of Ishmael, the son of Abraham ... to their generations: the
first-born of Ishmael Nebaioth; and Kedar and Abdeel and Mibsam, and Mishma ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxv.htm

Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.org

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