Topical Bible: Tribe of Benjamin: Celebrated Persons of Kish

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The Tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. Among its notable families is the family of Kish, which produced several celebrated figures in the biblical narrative. Kish himself is a prominent figure, primarily recognized as the father of Saul, the first king of Israel.

Kish, Father of Saul

Kish, a Benjamite, is introduced in the Scriptures as a man of standing and wealth. He is described as "a man of wealth" (1 Samuel 9:1), indicating his prominence within the tribe. Kish's lineage is traced back through several generations, establishing his heritage and the nobility of his family within the tribe of Benjamin. His son, Saul, would rise to become the first king of Israel, marking Kish's family as one of great historical and theological importance.

Saul, Son of Kish

Saul, the most celebrated descendant of Kish, was chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. His selection is a pivotal moment in Israelite history, transitioning the nation from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. The Bible recounts Saul's anointing by the prophet Samuel, who poured oil on Saul's head and declared, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" (1 Samuel 10:1). Saul's reign, though initially marked by military successes and the unification of Israel, eventually faced challenges due to his disobedience to God's commands.

Abner, Son of Ner

Another notable figure from the family of Kish is Abner, the son of Ner, who was Saul's uncle. Abner served as the commander of Saul's army and played a crucial role in the military campaigns during Saul's reign. His loyalty to Saul and his family is evident throughout the biblical narrative. After Saul's death, Abner initially supported Saul's son, Ish-bosheth, as king over Israel, opposing David's claim to the throne. However, Abner eventually recognized David's divine appointment and sought to unite the kingdom under David's rule (2 Samuel 3:6-21).

Jonathan, Son of Saul

Jonathan, the son of Saul and grandson of Kish, is celebrated for his deep friendship with David and his unwavering loyalty to his father. Despite Saul's animosity towards David, Jonathan recognized David's future as king and made a covenant of friendship with him, saying, "Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD" (1 Samuel 20:42). Jonathan's character is marked by bravery, faithfulness, and a profound sense of duty, making him one of the most admired figures in the biblical narrative.

Ish-bosheth, Son of Saul

Ish-bosheth, another son of Saul, briefly reigned as king over Israel following his father's death. His rule was marked by internal strife and conflict with David, who had been anointed as king over Judah. Ish-bosheth's reign was largely influenced by Abner, and his eventual assassination paved the way for David to become king over a united Israel (2 Samuel 4:5-7).

The family of Kish, through its notable descendants, played a significant role in the history of Israel, contributing to the shaping of the nation's monarchy and its spiritual journey. The legacy of Kish and his descendants is intricately woven into the biblical narrative, highlighting themes of leadership, loyalty, and divine providence.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 9:1
Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... 5:14) contains an allusion to Benjamin, which is ... the families which constituted the
half-tribe of Manasseh ... of the people of Shechem, who celebrated under his ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... districts, and by thus restricting each tribe to a ... Among the most celebrated names
in ancient history, that of ... and in which fifteen thousand persons lost their ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm