1. Abinadab of Kirjath-jearim
This is perhaps the most prominent figure bearing the name. He was a resident of Kirjath-jearim whose house became the resting place for the Ark of the Covenant after it was returned by the Philistines.
- The Ark’s Dwelling: “And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD” (1 Samuel 7:1).
- The Long Sojourn: The Ark remained in Abinadab’s house for a significant period—about twenty years (1 Samuel 7:2), though other accounts suggest a much longer time until David moved it.
- The Move to Jerusalem: When King David sought to bring the Ark to Jerusalem, it was taken “out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah” (2 Samuel 6:3) or “out of the house of Abinadab that was in the hill” (1 Chronicles 13:7).
- Tragic Connection: Two of his sons, Uzzah and Ahio, were involved in driving the cart carrying the Ark. Uzzah was struck dead by God for reaching out to steady the Ark when the oxen stumbled (2 Samuel 6:6-7).
2. Abinadab, Son of Jesse
This Abinadab was the brother of the great King David.
- Family Tree: He was the second son of Jesse of Bethlehem (1 Samuel 16:8; 1 Chronicles 2:13), making him David’s older brother.
- In Saul’s Army: He was one of the three eldest sons of Jesse who followed King Saul into battle against the Philistines when Goliath issued his challenge (1 Samuel 17:13).
3. Abinadab, Son of Saul
This individual was a member of Israel’s first royal family.
- Royal Kin: He was one of the sons of King Saul who fought alongside his father.
- Mount Gilboa: He perished with his father and two of his brothers (Jonathan and Malchi-shua) in the disastrous battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:2; 1 Chronicles 10:2).
4. Ben-abinadab, Solomon’s Officer
This reference is to the father of one of King Solomon’s appointed officials.
- Administrative Role: A man known as the “son of Abinadab” (sometimes called Ben-abinadab) was one of King Solomon’s twelve purveyors who supplied provisions for the royal household. He was responsible for the district of Dor (1 Kings 4:11).
- Royal Marriage: This purveyor was also married to Taphath, one of Solomon’s daughters.