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Jonathan(11)

Jonathan in the Bible — son of Malluch_4 [Malluchi] (NEH 12:14). Jonathan belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “given of God”

Profile

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

Biography

Jonathan was a male Levite, identified as the son of Malluch, a descendant of Aaron and thus part of the priestly line. His heritage places him among the priests mentioned in Nehemiah 12:12-14, highlighting his role within the Levitical tribe. This establishes Jonathan within the sacred priestly tradition of Israel.

Names & Titles

The name Jonathan means "gift of YHWH," reflecting a theologically rich meaning rooted in God's provision. This proper name, as recorded in Nehemiah 12:14, underscores the recognition of divine blessing in his identity.

Family

Jonathan is explicitly recorded as the son of Malluch, according to Nehemiah 12:14. Beyond this paternal relationship, Scripture does not provide additional family connections for him.

Significance

Jonathan's significance lies in his priestly lineage as a descendant of Aaron, situating him among the Levites who served in the temple. His identity as the son of Malluch connects him to the priestly service during the post-exilic period, emphasizing continuity in God's covenantal worship. This background underscores the faithfulness of the priestly families in maintaining the worship and ordinances established by God.

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
יוֹנָתָן
Transliteration
yonatan
Meaning
gift of y-h-v-h
Greek
Ιωναθαν
Reference
NEH 12:14
Strong's
H3129

Family & Relationships (1)

son

Malluch(NEH 12:14)

Notes

As "priests" (NEH 12:12), descendants of Aaron

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jonathan in the Bible?

Jonathan was a male Levite, identified as the son of Malluch, a descendant of Aaron and thus part of the priestly line. His heritage places him among the priests mentioned in Nehemiah 12:12-14, highlighting his role within the Levitical tribe. This establishes Jonathan within the sacred priestly tradition of Israel.

What does the name Jonathan mean?

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

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