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Ahinoam

Ahinoam in the Bible — wife of Saul (1SA 14:50). Referenced in 3 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “beauty of the brother; brother of motion”

Profile

Gender
female
Scripture References
3 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
2 connections

Biography

Ahinoam is a female figure in the Old Testament known primarily as the wife of King Saul. The biblical text explicitly identifies her in this role, though her tribal affiliation and other personal details are not recorded. She is noted within the context of Saul's family and the early monarchy in Israel.

Names & Titles

The name Ahinoam means '[my] brother is pleasant' in Hebrew, reflecting a personal or familial sentiment common in biblical naming practices. This is the only recorded name for her, and it is not indicated as divinely given.

Family

Scripture records Ahinoam as the wife of Saul and the mother of Ahimaaz. These are the only explicit family relationships attributed to her in the biblical text, with no further relatives mentioned.

Significance

Ahinoam's significance in the biblical narrative stems from her position as Saul's wife, placing her within the royal household during a pivotal time in Israel's history. Additionally, through her daughter Ahimaaz, she is connected to the lineage of Saul. Her role is further illuminated by her later association with David, as a woman named Ahinoam became one of David’s wives and the mother of his firstborn son, Amnon, linking her to the complex dynastic and familial developments that shaped Israel's monarchy.

Key Events

Became David's wife(1 Samuel 25:43)
Captured by Amalekites at Ziklag(1 Samuel 30:5)
Rescued by David(1 Samuel 30:18)
Bore Amnon to David(2 Samuel 3:2)

Names & Labels (1)

Ahinoamproper name
Hebrew
אֲחִינֹעַם
Transliteration
achiynoam
Meaning
[my] brother is pleasant
Greek
Αχινοομ
Reference
1SA 14:50
Strong's
H293

Family & Relationships (2)

wife

Saul(1SA 14:50)

daughter

Ahimaaz(1SA 14:50)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Ahinoam in the Bible?

Ahinoam is a female figure in the Old Testament known primarily as the wife of King Saul. The biblical text explicitly identifies her in this role, though her tribal affiliation and other personal details are not recorded. She is noted within the context of Saul's family and the early monarchy in Israel.

What does the name Ahinoam mean?

The name Ahinoam means “beauty of the brother; brother of motion” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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