Jehonathan(2)
Jehonathan in the Bible — son of Shemaiah_19 (NEH 12:18). Jehonathan belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “gift of the Lord; gift of a dove”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Jehonathan was a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as the son of Shemaiah. He belonged to the priestly line, being a descendant of Aaron, which is noted in Nehemiah 12:18. His role as a priest places him within the sacred service of God during the post-exilic period.
Names & Titles
The name Jehonathan means "gift of YHWH," reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names that acknowledges God's gracious provision. This proper name, recorded in Nehemiah 12:18, does not indicate that it was given directly by God but highlights the spiritual significance attributed to the individual.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Jehonathan as the son of Shemaiah, as noted in Nehemiah 12:18. Beyond this father-son relationship, no additional family connections are recorded in the biblical text.
Significance
Jehonathan's significance lies in his priestly heritage as a descendant of Aaron, affirming the continuity of the Levitical priesthood after the exile. His mention in Nehemiah 12:18 situates him within the restored community of worshippers who re-established temple service under God's covenant. This underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving His appointed ministers and the importance of maintaining proper worship in the post-exilic period.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- יְהוֹנָתָן
- Transliteration
- yəhonatan
- Meaning
- gift of y-h-v-h
- Greek
- Ιωναθαν
- Reference
- NEH 12:18
- Strong's
- H3083
Family & Relationships (1)
son
Notes
As "priests" (NEH 12:12), descendants of Aaron
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jehonathan in the Bible?
Jehonathan was a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as the son of Shemaiah. He belonged to the priestly line, being a descendant of Aaron, which is noted in Nehemiah 12:18. His role as a priest places him within the sacred service of God during the post-exilic period.
What does the name Jehonathan mean?
The name Jehonathan means “gift of the Lord; gift of a dove” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.