Topical Encyclopedia 1. Michael, the Son of AbihailMichael, the son of Abihail, is a notable figure among the descendants of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His lineage is recorded in the genealogical listings found in the First Book of Chronicles. Specifically, 1 Chronicles 5:13 states: "Their kinsmen by their families were Michael, Meshullam, Sheba, Jorai, Jacan, Zia, and Eber—seven in all." This passage highlights Michael as one of the seven sons of Abihail, indicating his place within the tribal structure and his role in the broader narrative of the Gadites. The tribe of Gad, to which Michael belonged, was known for its valor and strength, often depicted as fierce warriors. The Gadites settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the land of Gilead, which was known for its rugged terrain and strategic importance. Michael's inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the history of Israel. 2. Michael, the Chief of the Gadites Another Michael is mentioned as a chief among the Gadites during the reign of King David. This Michael is listed among the leaders who joined David at Ziklag, a time when David was fleeing from King Saul. In 1 Chronicles 12:8 , the text describes the Gadites who defected to David: "Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were mighty men of valor, trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains." Michael, as a chief among these warriors, played a significant role in supporting David during a critical period of his rise to kingship. The Gadites' loyalty and military prowess were instrumental in David's consolidation of power, and Michael's leadership would have been a key component of this support. The narrative of the Gadites joining David highlights themes of loyalty, courage, and divine providence, as David's eventual kingship was seen as ordained by God. In summary, the two Gadites named Michael are remembered for their roles within the tribe of Gad and their contributions to the history of Israel. Their accounts, though brief in the biblical text, reflect the broader themes of tribal identity, leadership, and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 5:13,14And their brothers of the house of their fathers were, Michael, and Meshullam, and Sheba, and Jorai, and Jachan, and Zia, and Heber, seven. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who is Michael the archangel? | GotQuestions.orgIs Jesus Michael the archangel? | GotQuestions.org Why were Michael and Satan disputing over the body of Moses (Jude 9)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Michael: A Captain of the Thousands of Manasseh Who Joined David at Ziklag Michael: A Descendant of Issachar Michael: Son of Jehoshaphat: Killed by his Brother, Jehoram Michael: The Archangel: Contention With the Devil Michael: The Archangel: Fights With the Dragon Michael: The Archangel: His Message to Daniel Related Terms |