What is the Significance of Nadab’s Story?
These are the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron: the firstborn, Amnon, by Ahinoam the Jezreelite; the second, Daniel, by Abigail the Carmelite;
Key Facts
Term Name
Nadab
Role
Priest and Royal Descendant
Born
c. 1450 BC (Aaron’s lineage); c. 1010 BC (David’s lineage)
Died
c. 1450 BC (Nadab of Aaron); Date unknown (Nadab of David)
Key Takeaways
- Nadab, son of Aaron, died for offering unauthorized fire to the Lord (Leviticus 10:1-2).
- Another Nadab, son of David, appears in genealogies as a link in Jesus’ lineage (1 Chronicles 3:1).
- Both Nadabs highlight God’s holiness and the importance of obedience in spiritual service.
Who Was Nadab in the Bible?
Nadab was the firstborn son of King David and Bathsheba, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 3:1.
Though briefly mentioned in Scripture, his inclusion in the royal genealogy underscores its role in tracing the lineage of David’s descendants, including Jesus Christ. Unlike the Nadab of Aaron’s line, this Nadab plays no active narrative role, serving instead as a marker of familial continuity in biblical records.
Nadab's Place in the Davidic Lineage
Nadab, the firstborn son of David and Bathsheba (1 Chronicles 3:1), appears in the Chronicler’s genealogy as a silent but significant link in the lineage leading to Jesus.
Though unnamed in the Gospels, his inclusion in this list underscores the covenant God made with David to establish an eternal dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12–13). This genealogical record, later cited in Matthew 1:6–7, frames Jesus as the fulfillment of that covenant. Nadab’s presence—despite his lack of narrative prominence—highlights how God’s plan unfolds through ordinary lives, preserving the line through which the Messiah would come.
What We Can Learn From Nadab
Nadab’s brief appearances in Scripture remind us that even overlooked individuals play roles in God’s unfolding redemptive plan.
Whether as a priest who erred in his worship (Leviticus 10:1-2) or a silent link in David’s lineage (1 Chronicles 3:1), his story underscores God’s sovereignty—He works through both choices and circumstances to fulfill His purposes, inviting all to find meaning in their unique place within His story.
Further Reading
Key Scripture Mentions
Leviticus 10:1-2
Nadab and Abihu’s unauthorized fire offering results in their deaths as divine judgment.
1 Chronicles 3:1
Nadab is listed as the firstborn son of David and Bathsheba in the Chronicler’s genealogy.
Related Concepts
Aaron (Figures)
Nadab’s father, the first high priest of Israel, central to the Levitical priesthood.
Covenant (Theological Concepts)
God’s promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12–13) is preserved through genealogies like Nadab’s.
The Offering of Unauthorized Fire (Events)
A pivotal event demonstrating the consequences of irreverent worship (Leviticus 10).