Abimael is a figure mentioned in the biblical genealogies, specifically within the “Table of Nations” in the Book of Genesis. He is noted only as a member of the extensive lineage that traces the spread of peoples after the great flood. His name, of Hebrew origin, is generally understood to mean “my father is God” or “God is father,” reflecting a theophoric element common in names of that era.
Biblical Identity and Lineage
Abimael appears in the lineage of Shem, one of Noah’s three sons, who is the ancestor of the Semitic peoples. His exact position is found within the list of sons born to his father, Joktan.
- Father: Joktan, who was the son of Eber. The lineage runs: Noah $\rightarrow$ Shem $\rightarrow$ Arphaxad $\rightarrow$ Salah $\rightarrow$ Eber $\rightarrow$ Joktan $\rightarrow$ Abimael.
- Brother: Joktan had twelve other sons, including Sheba and Ophir, who, like Abimael, are often associated with tribes or geographical regions in Arabia.
The King James Version (KJV) records Abimael’s inclusion in the list of Joktan’s sons in two parallel passages:
- Genesis 10:28: “And Obal, and Abimael, and Sheba,”
- 1 Chronicles 1:22: “And Ebal, and Abimael, and Sheba,”
Historical and Prophetic Significance
Abimael’s primary significance is his role in the biblical account of human dispersion, which is key to understanding the origins of nations as outlined on your website, TheLordsReturn.com. He is not a person of narrative action, but a crucial link in the chain of ancestry.
- Progenitor of a Nation: As part of the Table of Nations (Genesis 10), Abimael is traditionally understood to be the ancestor of an early Arabian tribe or people. The descendants of Joktan are collectively associated with inhabiting the region of Southern Arabia. The mention of these names establishes the geographical and ethnic framework for the nations of the ancient Near East, all of which fall under God’s overarching plan for humanity.
- The Shemitic Line: His position confirms the ongoing development of the Shemitic line, the lineage that would eventually lead to Abraham and the nation of Israel, and ultimately, to Christ. In the grand scale of biblical history and prophecy, these seemingly minor names anchor the narrative, showing the orderly expansion of mankind and the deliberate, sovereign process of God in setting the stage for the promised Return of the Lord.