J

Jonathan(3)

Jonathan in the Bible — son of Abiathar the priest (2SA 15:27). 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 member of the tribe of Levi, uniquely identified as the son of Abiathar the priest according to 2 Samuel 15:27. There are no additional notable personal details recorded about him in Scripture.

Names & Titles

The name Jonathan means "gift of YHWH," reflecting a theologically rich Hebrew meaning. This proper name, recorded in 2 Samuel 15:27, points to a recognition of divine blessing or favor.

Family

Jonathan is explicitly recorded as the son of Abiathar the priest, establishing his priestly lineage within the tribe of Levi. Scripture does not provide further family relationships for him beyond this connection.

Significance

Jonathan's significance lies primarily in his priestly heritage as the son of Abiathar, situating him within the Levitical priesthood during the time of King David. Although less is known about his personal actions, his identity contributes to the broader understanding of the priestly families that served during David's reign.

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
2SA 15:27
Strong's
H3083

Family & Relationships (1)

son

Abiathar(2SA 15:27)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jonathan in the Bible?

Jonathan was a male member of the tribe of Levi, uniquely identified as the son of Abiathar the priest according to 2 Samuel 15:27. There are no additional notable personal details recorded about him in Scripture.

What does the name Jonathan mean?

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

Continue Your Study