Ben-hadad
Ben-hadad in the Bible — King of Aram (1KI 15:18). Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 2 names
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Ben-hadad was a male king of Aram, noted in Scripture as a significant political figure during the time of the Israelite monarchs. He is recognized for his interactions with the kings of Israel and Judah, including being supported by King Asa and engaging in warfare against King Ahab. Additionally, he was the ruler whom Naaman served, highlighting his role in the broader biblical narrative.
Names & Titles
The name Ben-hadad means 'son of Hadad,' reflecting a common Semitic theophoric name linked to the storm god Hadad. His title, King of Aram, identifies his royal authority over the Aramean kingdom, emphasizing his political and military leadership as recorded in 1 Kings 15:18.
Family
Ben-hadad is recorded as the father of Tabrimmon, establishing a direct dynastic link. He was also the king whom Naaman served, indicating his position as a ruler over notable individuals in the biblical account. Beyond these, Scripture does not provide further family details.
Significance
Ben-hadad's significance lies in his interactions with Israel and Judah, where he is both a military adversary and a political figure who received support from King Asa. His war against King Ahab and his connection to Naaman place him at critical junctures in the biblical narrative, illustrating the complex relationships between Israel and neighboring nations. These accounts demonstrate God's sovereign involvement in the affairs of surrounding kingdoms during the period of the divided monarchy.
Names & Labels (2)
- Hebrew
- בֶּן־הֲ֠דַד
- Transliteration
- ben hadad
- Meaning
- son of Hadad
- Greek
- υἱὸν Αδερ
- Reference
- 1KI 15:18
- Strong's
- H1130
- Hebrew
- מֶ֣לֶךְ אֲרָ֔ם
- Transliteration
- melek aram
- Meaning
- king of Aram
- Greek
- βασιλέως Συρίας
- Reference
- 1KI 15:18
- Strong's
- H4428, H758
Notes
the king whom Naaman served (2KI 5:1), King Asa supported (1KI 15:18), and who warred against Ahab (1KI 20:12)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ben-hadad in the Bible?
Ben-hadad was a male king of Aram, noted in Scripture as a significant political figure during the time of the Israelite monarchs. He is recognized for his interactions with the kings of Israel and Judah, including being supported by King Asa and engaging in warfare against King Ahab. Additionally, he was the ruler whom Naaman served, highlighting his role in the broader biblical narrative.