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Jonathan

Jonathan in the Bible — priest of the Danites (JDG 18:30). Referenced in 2 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “given of God”

Profile

Gender
male
Scripture References
2 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
1 connection

Biography

Jonathan was a male priest of the Danites, as recorded in Judges 18:30. Scripture provides limited information about him beyond this unique role. No tribe or additional notes are specified for Jonathan in the biblical text.

Names & Titles

The name Jonathan means 'gift of YHWH,' reflecting a proper Hebrew name with significant theistic meaning. This name is noted in Judges 18:30 and highlights the divine blessing implicit in his identity.

Family

Jonathan is identified as the father of Gershom according to Judges 18:30. Beyond this explicit relationship, Scripture does not record further family connections for Jonathan.

Significance

Jonathan's importance in the biblical narrative rests on his role as a Danite priest and his fatherhood of Gershom. His priestly position situates him within the religious life of Israel during the period of the Judges, contributing to the spiritual leadership of the Danite tribe. This connection underscores the ongoing provision of priestly service outside the central Levitical line, reflecting the complexities of Israel's worship history.

Key Events

Victory over Philistine garrison(1 Samuel 14:1-15)
Nearly executed by Saul for breaking fast(1 Samuel 14:43-45)
Made covenant with David(1 Samuel 18:1-4)
Defended David before Saul(1 Samuel 19:4-7)
Warned David to flee from Saul(1 Samuel 20:1-42)
Met David in the wilderness(1 Samuel 23:16-18)
Killed in battle at Mount Gilboa(1 Samuel 31:2)

Names & Labels (1)

Jonathanproper name
Hebrew
יְהוֹנָתָן
Transliteration
yəhonatan
Meaning
gift of y-h-v-h
Greek
Ιωναθαν
Reference
JDG 18:30
Strong's
H3083

Family & Relationships (1)

son

Gershom(JDG 18:30)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jonathan in the Bible?

Jonathan was a male priest of the Danites, as recorded in Judges 18:30. Scripture provides limited information about him beyond this unique role. No tribe or additional notes are specified for Jonathan in the biblical text.

What does the name Jonathan mean?

The name Jonathan means “given of God” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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