Old Testament Bible Characters

This document provides concise descriptions of key Old Testament biblical characters, incorporating their names, relevant biblical citations, and etymological insights where appropriate.

Genesis: Creation and Patriarchs

• Adam (Gen. 2:20; 3:17, 21; 4:25; 5:5): From the Hebrew for “ground” or “red earth.” The first human, referred to as a “son of God” (Luke 3:38), considered God’s masterpiece and the crowning work of creation.
• Eve (Gen. 3:20): The first woman, created by God from Adam’s rib.
• Cain (Gen. 4:1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 25): From the Hebrew meaning “acquisition” or “possessed.” The eldest son of Adam and Eve, the first human born naturally, and the progenitor of the Kenites (Heb. Kain).
• Enoch (Gen. 4:17): The eldest son of Cain, after whom a city was named.
• Lamech (Gen. 4:18, 19, 23, 24): A descendant of Cain, son of Methusael, known for having two wives (Adah and Zillah) and exhibiting a haughty, self-confident spirit, disregard for human life, and lack of reverence for God.
• Jabal (Gen. 4:20): From the Hebrew meaning “river” or “moving.” Son of the Canaanite Lamech by Adah, he is identified as the progenitor of those who dwell in tents and possess livestock.
• Jubal (Gen. 4:21): From the Hebrew for “playing” or “ram’s horn.” The younger son of Adah, wife of Lamech, credited with inventing musical instruments. The term “Jubilee” derives from his name, referencing the trumpet used during the Jewish jubilee.
• Tubal-Cain (Gen. 4:22): Son of Lamech, associated with the origin of metalworking. His name elements signify “producer” and “smith.”
• Abel (Gen. 4:2, 4, 8, 9, 25): From the Hebrew meaning “meadow,” “vanity,” or “vapor.” The second son of Adam and Eve, tragically slain by his brother Cain.
• Seth (Gen. 4:25; 5:3, 8): From the Hebrew meaning “placed” or “appointed.” The third son of Adam and Eve.
• Enoch (Gen. 5:18, 21, 22, 23, 24): From the Hebrew meaning “dedicated.” Son of Jared, notable for being taken directly to God without experiencing death.
• Methuselah (Gen. 5:22, 25, 26, 27): From the Hebrew meaning “man of the dart.” Son of Enoch and grandfather of Noah.
• Lamech (Gen. 5:25, 26, 28): From the Hebrew meaning “to make low.” The father of Noah.
• Noah (Gen. 5:28, 29, 30, 32; 6:8, 10; 7:6, 11, 13; 9:28, 29): From the Hebrew meaning “rest” or “comfort.” The last of the ten antediluvian Patriarchs and the central figure of the Flood narrative.
• Shem (Gen. 5:32; 6:10; 7:13; 9:18, 23, 26, 27; 11:10): From the Hebrew meaning “name.” Noah’s oldest son and the ancestral progenitor of Israel, through whose lineage Abraham descended.
• Arpachshad (Gen. 10:22, 24; 11:10): The third son of Shem, born two years after the Flood.
• Shelah (Gen. 10:24; 11:12-15): A descendant of Arpachshad; also a son of Judah and an ancestral figure of a clan within the tribe of Judah.
• Eber (Gen. 10:21, 24-25; 11:14, 16-17): A descendant of Shem, ancestor of Abraham, and associated with the Assyrian peoples.
• Peleg (Gen. 10:25; 11:16): A descendant of Shem, an ancestor of Abraham (and Jesus), recognized as an ancestor of all Semitic peoples of Mesopotamia.
• Nahor (Gen. 11:22, 24, 26, 27): Son of Serug, father of Terah, and grandfather of Abraham.
• Terah (Gen. 11:24, 26, 27, 31, 32): Father of Abraham; his religious practices are a subject of scholarly discussion.
• Abram/Abraham (Gen. 11:26, 27, 31; 12:1, 5; 13:2; 15:1; 17:1, 5): “Father of a multitude.” The first Hebrew patriarch, son of Terah, and a descendant of Noah’s son Shem. Originally known as Abram.
• Haran (Gen. 11:26, 27, 28): The third son of Terah, younger brother of Abraham, and father of Lot.
• Lot (Gen. 11:27, 31; 12:5; 13:5-13; 14:12; 19:30-38): Abraham’s nephew, who chose the land of Sodom due to its apparent beauty and fertility.
• Joktan (Gen. 10:25): From the Hebrew meaning “little,” “small,” or “dispute.” A son of Eber, from whom thirteen Arab tribes are said to have sprung.
• Ham (Gen. 5:32; 7:13; 9:18, 22): Traditionally considered the youngest of Noah’s three sons. Noted for his role in covering Noah’s nakedness after Noah’s drunkenness.
• Cush (Gen. 10:6): The eldest son of Ham and grandson of Noah, and founder of a tribal family (Gen. 10:6-8; 1 Chron. 1:8-10). Also the name of the land inhabited by the Cushites, often translated as Ethiopia (Isa. 11:11; 18:1).
• Nimrod (Gen. 10:8-9): From the Hebrew meaning “valiant,” “strong,” or “he that rules.” A son of Cush, son of Ham. Described as a mighty hunter and potent monarch whose land was named after him.
• Mizraim (Gen. 10:6): From the Hebrew meaning “tribulations.” The second son of Ham and father of Ludim, whose descendants were associated with Egypt (Gen. 10:6, 13; 1 Chron. 1:8, 11).
• Put (Gen. 10:6): From the Hebrew meaning “brow” or “extension.” The third son of Ham, whose dwelling was associated with Libya (Ezek. 27:10) and whose descendants became hired servants of the Syrians (Nah. 3:9).
• Canaan (Gen. 9:18, 25, 26, 27; 10:6): From the Hebrew meaning “lowland” or “trader.” A son of Ham and grandson of Noah, and the progenitor of the Canaanite people (Gen. 9:18-27; 1 Chron. 1:8, 13). Also the name of the country they inhabited (Gen. 11:31).
• Japheth (Gen. 5:32; 7:13; 9:18, 23, 27; 10:2): From the Hebrew meaning “beauty,” “let him enlarge,” or “he that persuades.” The second son of Noah, born in the patriarch’s five hundredth year, and the progenitor of peoples who spread over the northern and western regions of the earth.
• Melchizedek (Gen. 14:18): From the Hebrew meaning “king of righteousness” or “justice.” The priest and king of Salem who met Abraham and blessed him.
• Eliezer (Gen. 15:2): Abraham’s chief servant, referred to as “son of his house,” likely “Eliezer of Damascus” to distinguish him.
• Moab (Gen. 19:37): The son of Lot by his eldest daughter. The Moabites were closely related to the Ammonites, and the Israelites were commanded to have no dealings with them.
• Ben-ammi (Gen. 19:38): “Son of my people.” The son born to Lot by his youngest daughter, from whom the Ammonite tribe originated.
• Abimelech (Gen. 20:2, 3, 9, 14; 26:1): A king of Gerar during Abraham’s time. He took Abraham’s wife Sarah as his own after Abraham claimed she was his sister. God commanded Abimelech to repent and confront Abraham.
• Hagar (Gen. 16:1, 3, 4): An Egyptian slave and handmaid of Sarai, given to Abraham to bear a child. Their union produced Ishmael, Abraham’s firstborn and the progenitor of the Ishmaelites.
• Ishmael (Gen. 16:11, 15; 17:18, 20; 25:12, 17): The son of Abraham by Hagar, born when Abraham was eighty-six years old. He was circumcised at age thirteen and received a divine promise of twelve princes and becoming a great nation.
• Sarai/Sarah (Gen. 11:29, 30, 31; 12:5; 17:15, 16; 21:1-2; 23:19): Wife of Abraham, who gave birth to Isaac and, through Hagar, was linked to the progenitor of the Ishmaelites.
• Isaac (Gen. 17:19, 21; 21:3; 22:2; 24:16; 25:20): From the Hebrew meaning “he laughed” or “laughing one.” The son of Abraham and Sarah, born at Gerar when Abraham was one hundred and Sarah ninety. A child of promise whom God later commanded Abraham to offer as a sacrifice.
• Esau (Gen. 25:25; 36:1, 43): From the Hebrew meaning “hairy.” The elder son of Isaac and twin brother of Jacob by Rebekah. His name is associated with his birth appearance. He famously relinquished his birthright and blessing to Jacob.
• Adah (Gen. 36:2, 4): One of Lamech’s wives in Genesis 4; also a wife of Esau.
• Oholibamah (Gen. 36:2, 5): Daughter of Anah and one of Esau’s wives, also identified as Judith.
• Basemath (Gen. 36:3): Daughter of Elon the Hittite, one of Esau’s wives.
• Jacob (Gen. 25:26; 35:22-26): The second son of Isaac and Rebekah, Esau’s twin brother. Born shortly after Esau, he is referred to as the younger brother. Isaac was sixty when Jacob and Esau were born.
• Leah (Gen. 29:16-17, 23-26, 30, 31; 30:9, 11, 13, 14, 16-20; 34:1; 35:23): Wife of Jacob and daughter of Laban. She was given to Jacob in marriage through Laban’s deception, in place of her younger sister Rachel.
• Reuben (Gen. 29:32; 35:23; 37:21-22, 29; 42:22, 37; 48:5; 49:3): From the Hebrew meaning “behold a son” or “vision of the son.” The firstborn of Jacob by Leah and founder of a tribal family.
• Simeon (Gen. 29:33; 34:25, 30; 35:23; 42:24, 36; 43:23; 48:5; 49:5): From the Hebrew meaning “hearing” or “hearing with acceptance.” The second son of Jacob by Leah.
• Levi (Gen. 29:34; 34:25, 30; 35:23; 49:5): The third son of Jacob by Leah. Levi had three sons and died in Egypt at age 137 (Gen. 29:34; 46:11; Exod. 6:16). His descendants, the Levites, were entrusted with the care of the sanctuary, and their ministry is described in the Book of Leviticus.
• Judah (Gen. 29:35; 35:23; 37:26; 38:1; 49:8-10): From the Hebrew meaning “object of praise” or “praise of the Lord.” The fourth son of Jacob by Leah and founder of a tribal family.
• Onan (Gen. 38:2-4, 8-10; 46:12): From the Hebrew meaning “strong” or “pain.” The second son of Judah by the daughter of Shua the Canaanite. He was divinely punished for his refusal to fulfill his levirate duty to his brother’s widow.
• Tamar (Gen. 38:6, 11ff.): Daughter-in-law of Judah and mother of his twin sons, Perez and Zerah. She conceived by Judah after disguising herself as a prostitute following his dishonor towards her.
• Perez (Gen. 38:27-30): From the Hebrew meaning “bursting through” or “a breach.” A son of Judah and one of the twins Tamar bore, who became the father of a tribal family and an ancestor of Jesus Christ.
• Zerah (Gen. 38:27-30): One of the twins born to Judah by his daughter-in-law, Tamar.
• Issachar (Gen. 30:17-18; 35:23; 49:14): The ninth son of Jacob and the fifth by Leah. No specific actions or narratives are recorded for Issachar as an individual after his birth.
• Zebulun (Gen. 30:19-20; 35:23; 49:13): The tenth son of Jacob and the sixth by Leah. He was the progenitor of three tribal families through his sons, Sered, Elon, and Jahleel, who accompanied Jacob’s other sons and grandsons into Egypt.
• Dinah (Gen. 30:21; 34:1; 46:15): The daughter of Jacob by Leah. Her violation by Shechem, a Canaanite or Hivite prince, and the subsequent vengeful actions of her brothers Simeon and Levi, are a significant narrative episode.
• Zilpah (Gen. 29:24; 30:9, 10, 12; 35:26; 46:18): Leah’s handmaid, who became a wife of Jacob and bore him two sons, Gad and Asher.
• Gad (Gen. 30:9-11; 35:26; 49:19): The seventh son of Jacob, firstborn of Zilpah, Leah’s maid, and full brother of Asher. He was also the progenitor of a tribal family.
• Asher (Gen. 30:12-13; 35:26; 49:20): The eighth son of Jacob and second by Zilpah, Leah’s maid, and progenitor of a tribe.
• Rachel (Gen. 29:5-6, 9-12, 16-18, 20, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31): The second wife of Jacob and sister of Leah. Jacob labored seven years for Laban to marry Rachel, was deceived into marrying Leah first, and then worked another seven years for Rachel.
• Joseph (Gen. 30:22-25; 35:24; 37:2, 3, 5, 23, 28; 39-50): The eleventh son of Jacob and first by Rachel. Sold into slavery by his brothers due to jealousy, he ultimately rose to a position of leadership in Egypt and became instrumental in saving his family from famine.
• Asenath (Gen. 41:45, 50; 46:20): Egyptian wife of Joseph.
• Manasseh (Gen. 41:51; 46:20; 48:1, 5, 13, 14, 20): The elder son of Joseph, born in Egypt (half Hebrew, half Egyptian). He was the founder of a tribe.
• Ephraim (Gen. 41:52; 46:20; 48:1, 5, 13, 17, 20): The younger son of Joseph, born in Egypt (half Hebrew, half Egyptian). He was the founder of a tribe.
• Benjamin (Gen. 35:16-18, 24; 42:4, 36; 43:14-16, 29): The youngest son of Jacob and the only one born in Canaan. His mother, Rachel, who died in childbirth, named him Benoni (“son of sorrow”), but Jacob changed his name to Benjamin.
• Bilhah (Gen. 29:29; 30:3-5, 7; 35:22, 25; 37:2; 46:25): Rachel’s handmaid and a concubine of Jacob, who bore him two sons, Dan and Naphtali.
• Dan (Gen. 30:3-6; 35:25; 46:23; 49:16-17): The fifth son of Jacob and first by Bilhah, Rachel’s handmaid. Dan was the full brother of Naphtali and founder of a tribal family.
• Naphtali (Gen. 30:7-8; 35:25; 46:24; 49:21): The sixth son of Jacob and second by Bilhah, Rachel’s maid. Rachel named him to reflect her “wrestling” in prayer for God’s favor and blessing.
• Bethuel (Gen. 22:23; 24:15, 24, 47): From the Hebrew meaning “abode of God” or “dweller in God.” A son of Nahor by his wife Milcah.
• Rebekah (Gen. 22:23; 24:15-16, 29, 30, 45, 51, 53, 58-61, 64, 67; 25:20, 2): Wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau.
• Laban (Gen. 24:29, 50-51; 25:20; 27:43; 28:2; 29:1; 31:1; 46:18, 25): The son of Bethuel and grandson of Nahor. Laban was the brother of Rebekah and father of Rachel and Leah, residing in Padan-aram.
• Ephron (Gen. 23:1-20; 25:9; 49:28-33; 50:13): A son of Zohar, a Hittite, from whom Abraham purchased the field containing the cave where he buried Sarah.
• Keturah (Gen. 25:1, 4): Abraham’s wife after the death of Sarah.
• Hamor (Gen. 33:19; 34:2, 4, 6, 8, 13, 18, 20, 24, 26): A Hivite prince of Shechem and father of Shechem. He was involved in the defilement of Dinah and subsequently killed by Israel’s sons.
• Shechem (Gen. 33:19; 34:2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 18, 20, 24, 26): A Hivite prince who desired Dinah and violated her. He was deceived into circumcising himself and his tribe by Israel’s sons, leading to his murder while incapacitated.
• Edom (Gen. 25:30; 36:1, 8, 19, 43): Another name for Esau, meaning “hairy.” The eldest son of Isaac and twin brother of Jacob by Rebekah, named for his birth appearance. He traded his birthright and blessing to Jacob.
• Israel (Gen. 32:28; 37:3; 43:8): The new name given by God to Jacob.
• Potiphar (Gen. 37:36; 39:1): A high-ranking Egyptian official who purchased Joseph as a slave. He imprisoned Joseph after his wife falsely accused him of attempted rape.

Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel 1:1 – 2:1

• Shiphrah (Exod. 1:15): One of two Hebrew midwives who defied Pharaoh’s order to kill male Hebrew infants.
• Puah (Exod. 1:15): One of two Hebrew midwives who saved the Hebrew boys.
• Reuel (Exod. 2:18) / Jethro (Exod. 3:1): Moses’s father-in-law, also known as Jethro.
• Amram (Exod. 6:20; Num. 26:59): A grandson of Levi, son of Kohath, and father of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam. Amram died at 137 years of age.
• Jochebed (Exod. 6:20; Num. 26:59): Mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.
• Aaron (Exod. 4:14; 28:1; 32:2; Lev. 1:7): Brother of Moses and the first High Priest of Israel. He served as God’s mouthpiece on behalf of Moses to Egypt.
• Elisheba (Exod. 6:23): Aaron’s wife.
• Nadab (Exod. 6:23; 24:1, 9; 28:1; Lev. 10:1-2; 16:1): The elder son of Aaron, destroyed by fire for offering unauthorized fire upon the altar without proper sanctification.
• Abihu (Exod. 6:23; 24:1, 9; 28:1; Lev. 10:1-2; 16:1): The second son of Aaron, who, along with his brother Nadab, was destroyed for offering “strange” or unauthorized fire on the altar.
• Eleazar (Exod. 6:23; 28:1; Lev. 10:12, 16): The third son of Aaron by Elisheba and father of Phinehas (Exod. 6:23, 25). He was consecrated a priest (Exod. 28:1) and became chief of the Levites.
• Phinehas (Exod. 6:25; Num. 25:7-8, 11): A son of Eleazar, one of Aaron’s sons, who famously slew Zimri and Cozbi, demonstrating great zeal. He became the third high priest of the Jews and faithfully discharged his office.
• Ithamar (Exod. 6:23; 28:1; 38:21; Lev. 10:12, 16): From the Hebrew meaning “palm-coast” or “palm tree.” The fourth and youngest son of Aaron and Elisheba (Exod. 6:23; 1 Chron. 6:3; 24:1). His consecration, along with Aaron’s other sons, is noted in Exodus 28.
• Moses (Exod. 2:10; Deut. 3:23-29; 34:1-12): From the Hebrew meaning “drawn forth” or “taken out of the water.” The youngest son of Amram and Jochebed, of the family of Kohath. Renowned as the leader of Israel who liberated the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt and guided them to the Promised Land. He famously spoke to God “face to face.”
• Zipporah (Exod. 2:21; 18:2): Moses’s wife, given to him by Jethro.
• Gershom (Exod. 2:22; 18:3): The firstborn son of Moses and Zipporah, born in Midian.
• Eliezer (Exod. 18:4): The second son of Moses and Zipporah, named by his father as a token of gratitude to God.
• Miriam (Exod. 15:20): Aaron and Moses’s sister, who was afflicted with leprosy for rebelling against Moses’s leadership.
• Amalek(ites) (Exod. 17:8-13; Gen. 36:12): From the Hebrew meaning “warlike” or “dweller in the vale.” Son of Eliphaz and grandson of Esau, and founder of a tribal family known as the Amalekites.
• Joshua (Exod. 24:13; Num. 11:28; 13:16; 14:6, 30, 38; 27:18-23; Deut. 3:21; 31:3, 7, 14, 23; 34:9; Josh. 1:1; 24:29): The son of Nun and successor of Moses, traditionally considered the author of the book bearing his name. He also bore the name Hoshea. He led Israel into the Promised Land of Canaan and defeated its pagan nations.
• Bezalel (Exod. 31:2; 35:30; 36:1, 2; 38:22): A man gifted by the Spirit of God for the construction of the Tabernacle.
• Oholiab (Exod. 31:6; 35:34; 36:1, 2; 38:23): A man divinely endowed to assist Bezalel in building the Tabernacle.
• Molech (Lev. 18:21; 20:2-5): The biblical name of a Canaanite god associated with child sacrifice, often through fire or war.
• Eldad (Num. 11:26-30): From the Hebrew meaning “God is a friend” or “God has loved.” One of the two elders who received a portion of the Spirit and assisted Moses in governing Israel.
• Medad (Num. 11:26-30): From the Hebrew meaning “love.” An elder who, despite not being present at the Tabernacle, received the gift of the Spirit.
• Caleb (Num. 13:6, 30; 14:6, 24, 30, 38; Deut. 1:36): One of the chief spies sent by Moses, known for his courage and perseverance in contrast to the other discouraged spies. He was invincible in driving out giants, fully devoted to God, and remained vigorous in old age. Scripture repeatedly states, “he has fully followed the Lord.”
• Korah (Num. 16): The son of Izhar, grandson of Levi, who, along with Dathan and Abiram, conspired against Moses and Aaron. Korah and his family were swallowed by the earth as divine punishment.
• Sihon (Num. 21:21, 23; Josh. 2:10; 9:10): From the Hebrew meaning “great” or “sweeping out.” A king of the Amorites during the conquest of Canaan. He refused Israel passage through his land and was defeated at Jahaz.
• Og (Num. 21:33-35; Josh. 2:10; 9:10): From the Hebrew meaning “long-necked” or “bread baked in ashes.” The giant king of Bashan, the last of the Rephaim, slain at Edrei.
• Balak (Num. 22:2, 4): From the Hebrew meaning “waster” or “destroys.” The King of Moab and son of Zipper, who hired Balaam to curse Israel during their wilderness journeying in his territory.
• Balaam (Num. 22:5; Josh. 24:9-10): From the Hebrew meaning “pilgrim,” “devouring,” or “lord of the people.” A diviner, son of Beor, residing in Pethor. Balaam was commissioned by Balak to curse Israel but was divinely compelled to bless them. He famously spoke to his donkey while riding it.
• Zimri (Num. 25:6, 14): A prince of the tribe of Simeon, slain by Phinehas for taking a pagan wife.
• Rahab (Josh. 2:1; 6:22-25): A prostitute in Jericho who sheltered the Israelite spies. Her family was spared when Israel destroyed Jericho.
• Achan (Josh. 7:1, 18-26; 22:20): The son of Carmi of the tribe of Judah. He was identified as the transgressor who stole and hid part of the spoil from Jericho. His confession led to his death.
• Othniel (Judg. 3:9-11): From the Hebrew meaning “powerful one” or “lion of God.” A son of Kenaz, younger brother of Caleb. He served as the first of the “Judges” after Joshua’s death, judging Israel for forty years.
• Ehud (Judg. 3:15-26a): The son of Gera, the second judge of Israel. A left-handed man who secretly assassinated Eglon, King of Moab.
• Eglon (Judg. 3:15-26a): From the Hebrew meaning “circle” or “chariot.” A king of Moab who captured Jericho and oppressed the Israelites. He was slain by Ehud.
• Shamgar (Judg. 3:31): The son of Anath and the third judge of Israel. He famously delivered Israel from the Philistines by killing 600 men with an oxgoad.
• Deborah (Judg. 4-5): Prophetess and the fourth, and only female, Judge of pre-monarchic Israel.
• Barak (Judg. 4:6): From the Hebrew meaning “lightning” or “thunder.” The son of Abinoam, a Naphtalite, who, with Deborah, defeated Sisera, the Canaanite general (Judg. 4:6; Heb. 11:32).
• Sisera (Judg. 4:7, 17-22): Commander of the Canaanite army that subjugated northern Israel. He was killed by Jael (Judg. 4:21, 22; 1 Sam. 12:9; Ps. 83:9). In his flight after battle with Barak, Sisera sought refuge in Jael’s tent, where she treacherously slew him while he slept, fulfilling Deborah’s prophecy.
• Jael (Judg. 4:11, 17-22): The wife of Heber the Kenite, a descendant of Moses. She killed Sisera to deliver Israel from King Jabin’s troops.
• Gideon (Judg. 6-8): From the Hebrew meaning “a cutting down,” “he that bruises,” or “great warrior.” A son of Joash of the family of Abiezer, a Manassite, who lived in Ophrah and delivered Israel from Midian. He is known for his repeated requests for divine signs to confirm God’s presence in battle.
• Abimelech (Judg. 9): The son of Gideon by a concubine in Shechem, who belonged to a prominent Canaanite family.
• Tola (Judg. 10:1-2): The son of Puah of the tribe of Issachar. He served as the first of the five minor Judges, judging Israel for twenty-three years. He lived and died at Shamar.
• Jair (Judg. 10:3-5): A Gileadite who judged Israel for twenty-three years, succeeding Tola.
• Jephthah (Judg. 11:1 – 12:7): From the Hebrew meaning “he does open” or “set free.” A Gileadite, an illegitimate child expelled by his brothers. He became a Judge in Israel, delivered the people from the Ammonites, and judged Israel for six years.
• Ibzan (Judg. 12:8-10): From the Hebrew meaning “splendid” or “active.” One of the minor judges who succeeded Jephthah, judging Israel for seven years, and was buried at Bethlehem.
• Elon (Judg. 12:11-12): A Zebulonite who judged Israel for ten years. Elon is also the name of a town (Josh. 19:43; 1 Kings 4:9).
• Abdon (Judg. 12:13-15): A son of Hillel the Pirathonite, Abdon judged Israel for eight years. Due to having multiple wives, he had forty sons and thirty nephews, who rode seventy colts.
• Manoah (Judg. 13): From the Hebrew meaning “rest” or “quiet.” A Danite from Zorah, and father of Samson (Judg. 13; 16:31). Manoah was a godly, hospitable man who opposed alliances with the Philistines. A divine messenger announced Samson’s birth to him.
• Samson (Judg. 13:24; 14:1 – 16:31): One of the most renowned Hebrew judges, son of the Danite Manoah, who judged Israel for twenty years. As a Nazarite, Samson possessed supernatural strength, but his lust and pride ultimately led to his downfall.
• Delilah (Judg. 16:4-22): The “woman in the valley of Sorek” whom Samson loved. She enticed Samson to reveal the source of his strength, enabling the Philistines to overcome him.
• Elimelech (Ruth 1:1-3): The husband of Naomi and father of Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem-Judah (Ruth 1:2, 3; 2:1, 3; 4:3-9; 1 Sam. 17:12).
• Naomi (Ruth 1:2ff.): Ruth’s mother-in-law in the Book of Ruth. She became a widow when her husband Elimelech died, and she and Ruth returned to Bethlehem for survival.
• Mahlon (Ruth 1:2, 5): From the Hebrew meaning “sickly” or “mild.” Naomi’s elder son and Ruth’s first husband, who died in Moab.
• Chilion (Ruth 1:2, 5): From the Hebrew meaning “wasting away” or “complete.” One of the two sons of Elimelech and Naomi who married Orpah in Moab and died there (Ruth 1:2; 4:9).
• Orpah (Ruth 1:4): A woman from Moab, daughter-in-law of Naomi and wife of Chilion. After her husband’s death, she initially intended to accompany Naomi and Ruth to Judea but ultimately returned to her people.
• Ruth (Ruth 1:4): The title character of the Book of Ruth. A Moabite woman who married an Israelite. After the deaths of her husband and father-in-law, she demonstrated loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi, returning with her to Bethlehem, where her kindness led her to marry Boaz.
• Boaz (Ruth 2:1): From the Hebrew meaning “strength” or “fleetness.” A wealthy and honorable Bethlehemite, who became Ruth the Moabite’s second husband and an ancestor of David and of Christ.
• Obed (Ruth 4:13-17): Son of Boaz by Ruth, considered better than ten sons to her, as through Obed she became an ancestress of Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:17-22; 1 Chron. 2:12; Matt. 1:5; Luke 3:32).
• Elkanah (1 Sam. 1:1): The father of the Prophet Samuel, in the line of Levi.
• Hannah (1 Sam. 1-2): Mother of Samuel, renowned for her fervent prayer (1 Sam. 1-2) and unwavering faith in God.
• Peninnah (1 Sam. 1): One of Elkanah’s two wives, briefly mentioned in the first Book of Samuel.
• Eli (1 Sam. 1:9, 12-14, 17; 2:12, 34; 4:14-18): From the Hebrew meaning “Jehovah is high” or “my God.” The high priest and judge of Israel, of the family of Ithamar. He served as priest and judge over Samuel, dying upon hearing of his wicked sons’ deaths in battle.
• Samuel (1 Sam. 1:20; 2:18, 21, 26; 3:1-21; 7:15; 8:1): The earliest Hebrew prophet after Moses and the last of the Judges. Son of Elkanah of Ephraim and Hannah. He judged Israel until the anointing of the first kings, Saul and David.

1 Samuel 2:12 – 31:13; 2 Samuel; Psalms; 1 Kings 1-11; Song of Songs; Proverbs; Ecclesiastes; Job

• Hophni (1 Sam. 2:12-17, 22, 34; 4:4, 11, 17): A son of Eli, the high priest and judge, who proved unworthy of his sacred office (1 Sam. 1:3; 2:34; 4:4, 11, 17). Always associated with his brother Phinehas, they were partners in evil practices, incurring a divinely pronounced curse (1 Sam. 2:34; 3). Both were slain at the battle of Aphek, an event that, coupled with the loss of the Ark, led to Eli’s death.
• Phinehas (1 Sam. 2:12-17, 22, 34; 4:4, 11, 17): A son of Eli, the high priest and judge, who was unworthy of his sacred offices (1 Sam. 1:3; 2:34; 4:4, 11, 17). Always associated with his brother Hophni, they were partners in evil practices and brought a double curse upon themselves (1 Sam. 2:34; 3). Both were slain at the battle of Aphek, and this, along with the Ark’s capture, caused Eli’s death.
• Ichabod (1 Sam. 4:19-22): From the Hebrew meaning “the glory is not,” “where is the glory,” or “inglorious.” The posthumous son of Phinehas and grandson of Eli. His name commemorated a tragic crisis in Israel’s history: the great slaughter of the people (including Hophni and Phinehas) and the capture of the Ark by the Philistines.
• Joel (1 Sam. 8:1-3): The firstborn son of Samuel the prophet.
• Abijah (1 Sam. 8:1-3): The second son of Samuel the prophet. He and his brother Joel were appointed Israel’s leaders before the establishment of the monarchy.
• Dagon (1 Sam. 5:2-5, 7): The principal deity of the Philistines, whose statue repeatedly fell and was destroyed when the Ark of the Covenant was placed in its temple.
• Saul (1 Sam. 9:1-2, 16-17; 13:1; 15:1-35; 16:14, 21, 23; 18:6-16; 28): The first king of Israel, noted for his impressive stature and appearance. His reign was marked by poor leadership and a lust for power that led him to attempt to kill David. He ultimately died by his own hand to avoid capture and humiliation.
• Ahinoam (1 Sam. 14:50): Saul’s wife, daughter of Ahimaaz.
• Jonathan (1 Sam. 13:16; 14:1-15, 49; 18:1; 31:6): Son of Saul and David’s loyal friend. He protected David from Saul’s attempts to kill him and died in battle.
• Ishvi (1 Sam. 14:49): The second son of Saul by his wife Ahinoam.
• Malchi-shua (1 Sam. 14:49): From the Hebrew meaning “king of help.” The third son of Saul, slain by the Philistines at Mount Gilboa.
• Merab (1 Sam. 14:49; 18:17-19): A daughter of Saul.
• Michal (1 Sam. 14:49; 18:20-29; 19:11-17; 25:44; 2 Sam. 6:16, 23): A daughter of Saul and one of David’s wives.
• Nahash (1 Sam. 11:1): An Amorite king who besieged Jabesh-Gilead and was defeated by Saul.
• Ahijah (1 Sam. 14:3, 18): A Pelonite and one of David’s thirty mighty men.
• Abner (1 Sam. 14:50; 2 Sam. 2:8, 17; 3:27): The son of Ner, cousin of Saul, and captain of his army. Due to his royal connection and strong character, he wielded great influence during and after Saul’s reign.
• Agag (1 Sam. 15:8, 9, 20): King of the Amalekites, whom Saul spared against divine command. He was subsequently killed by Samuel, an act that contributed to Saul’s loss of the kingdom.
• Jesse (1 Sam. 16:1, 3, 5; 17:12): Father of David, who initially tried to conceal David from Samuel when he came to anoint a new king in Saul’s place.
• Eliab (1 Sam. 16:6; 17:13, 28): The eldest son of Jesse and brother of David.
• Abinadab (1 Sam. 16:8; 17:13): The second son of Jesse, father of David.
• Shammah (1 Sam. 16:9; 17:13): The third son of Jesse and brother of David.
• David (1 Sam. 16:11-13, 18-19, 21; 17:12-58; 18:10-16, 20-29; 2 Sam. 1:1ff.): From the Hebrew meaning “beloved.” The youngest of Jesse’s eight sons from Bethlehem, the second and arguably greatest of Israel’s kings, a prolific poet, and one of the most prominent figures in world history.
• Amnon (2 Sam. 3:2; 13:1-22): The eldest son of David by Ahinoam the Jezreelite, who was later slain by Absalom.
• Chileab (2 Sam. 3:3): From the Hebrew meaning “perfection of the father.” The second son of David by Abigail.
• Absalom (2 Sam. 3:3; 18:9): From the Hebrew meaning “father of peace.” The third son of David by his wife Maacah, daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. Absalom attempted to usurp David’s throne, leading to his flight and eventual death when his hair became entangled in a tree.
• Adonijah (2 Sam. 3:4; 1 Kings 1:5, 9, 18): The fourth son of David and Haggith, born in Hebron. After Absalom’s death, he became a claimant to the throne (1 Kings 2:15), but Bathsheba’s efforts secured the succession for her son Solomon, who later interpreted Adonijah’s desire for Abishag as a threat to the kingdom.
• Shephatiah (2 Sam. 3:4): The fifth son of David with his wife Abital.
• Ithream (2 Sam. 3:5): From the Hebrew meaning “remnant” or “abundance of the people.” The sixth son of David, born at Hebron. His mother was Eglah (2 Sam. 3:5; 1 Chron. 3:3), who is also associated with Michal’s lineage.
• Goliath (1 Sam. 17:4, 23): From the Hebrew meaning “the exile” or “soothsayer.” The renowned giant of Gath, who challenged the armies of Israel. He was killed by David with a stone to the head and subsequently decapitated.
• Ahimelech (1 Sam. 21:1-6; 22:11-19): A son of Ahitub and chief priest at Nob, who was executed for providing assistance to David when he fled from Saul (1 Sam. 21:1-8; 22:9-20; 23:6; 30:7).
• Abiathar (1 Sam. 22:20-21): Abiathar escaped and fled to David in the cave of Adullam after Doeg the Edomite slew his father and eighty-five priests. He returned to Jerusalem with the Ark when David fled from Absalom. He served as joint high priest with Zadok and later conspired to make Adonijah king.
• Doeg (1 Sam. 21:7; 22:9, 18): From the Hebrew meaning “timid” or “fearful.” Chief of Saul’s herdsmen, an Edomite, who informed Saul of Ahimelech’s help for David. His report led to the massacre of Ahimelech and his priestly companions (1 Sam. 22:7-22).
• Achish (1 Sam. 21:10-15; 27:2-12; 28:1-2): Son of Maoch and king of Gath, to whom David fled (1 Sam. 21:10-14; 27:2-12). He provided refuge for David and promoted him within his army.
• Nabal (1 Sam. 25:3, 25, 36-39): From the Hebrew meaning “prominence” or “foolish.” A wealthy but ill-tempered sheepmaster of Maon, whose business was in Carmel (1 Sam. 25; 2 Sam. 2:2). He refused aid to David and his men, but his wife Abigail intervened, dissuading David from vengeance.
• Abigail (1 Sam. 25:3, 14-31, 39-42; 30:5, 18; 2 Sam. 2:2): Wife of Nabal, who persuaded David not to kill her husband. She subsequently became one of David’s wives after Nabal’s death.
• Ahinoam (1 Sam. 25:43; 30:5, 18; 2 Sam. 2:2): A wife of David from Jezreel.
• Ish-bosheth (2 Sam. 2:8-10; 4:5-8): From the Hebrew meaning “a man of shame.” One of Saul’s younger sons, made king over Israel by Abner. Ish-bosheth contested the throne with David for seven years. He was ultimately deserted by Abner and assassinated in his bed by two of his captains.
• Joab (2 Sam. 2:13-17; 3:27): The son of David’s half-sister, Zeruiah. This nephew of David became the most dominant captain in his uncle’s army (1 Sam. 26:6; 2 Sam. 2; 13).
• Baanah (2 Sam. 4:2, 5-12): A captain in Ish-bosheth’s army and one of his murderers (2 Sam. 4:5-12).
• Rechab (2 Sam. 4:2, 5-12): A son of Rimmon the Beerothite, and one of Ish-bosheth’s assassins.