Ahban is a minor, non-narrative figure mentioned only once in the King James Version of the Bible, appearing within the extensive genealogical records of the Tribe of Judah in the book of First Chronicles.
Ahban: A Son of the Tribe of Judah
Ahban’s sole mention in the Scriptures establishes his lineage, placing him as a descendant within the line of Hezron, who was a son of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:5). His name appears in a section that traces the family of Hezron’s son, Jerahmeel.
The specific reference to Ahban’s identity is found in:
- 1 Chronicles 2:29 (KJV): “And the name of the wife of Abishur was Abihail; and she bare him Ahban, and Molid.”
Key Details from Scripture:
- Father: Abishur
- Mother: Abihail
- Brother: Molid
- Tribe: Judah
The genealogies in First Chronicles serve the crucial purpose of establishing the identity and heritage of the tribes of Israel, particularly after the Babylonian exile, ensuring the proper lineage was preserved for the priesthood and, ultimately, the royal line of David, from which the Messiah would come. Though Ahban is not in the direct line leading to David, his inclusion secures a branch of the wider tribe of Judah.
The name Ahban itself is thought to mean “brother of an intelligent one” or “brother of an understanding one,” reflecting the tradition of names holding specific, often descriptive, meanings.