Adbeel is a figure briefly mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His significance lies in his place within the lineage of Abraham, being the third of the twelve sons of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar.
Lineage and Mentions in Scripture
Adbeel is listed in two places in the King James Version of the Bible, both of which serve to document the descendants of Abraham through Ishmael.
- Genesis 25:13, KJV: This passage lists the sons of Ishmael, fulfilling God’s promise that Ishmael would be the father of twelve princes.”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,”
- 1 Chronicles 1:29, KJV: This book reiterates the lineage in the larger list of generations stretching from Adam.”These are their generations: The firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth; then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,”
The Meaning of the Name
The name Adbeel (Heb. ‘Adbe’el) is generally interpreted to mean “chastened of God” or “disciplined by God.” This aligns with the common biblical practice of names reflecting a spiritual condition, an event, or a divine attribute.
Progenitor of a Tribe
As was the case with all of Ishmael’s twelve sons, Adbeel became the head or progenitor of one of the twelve tribes that descended from Ishmael. These tribes settled in the region that became known as Arabia. Though the Bible offers no further details on the life or actions of Adbeel himself, his inclusion in the sacred record confirms the fulfillment of God’s earlier promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael’s descendants.
Genesis 17:20 KJV
“And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.”