Meaning
Nathan is a Hebrew masculine personal name meaning “he has given” or “given.”
Biblical Usage
Nathan was a prophet who served during David’s reign. He delivered the LORD’s message concerning David’s house and the establishment of David’s kingdom. Later, Nathan confronted David after David took Bathsheba and arranged for Uriah’s death.
Near the end of David’s reign, Nathan worked with Bathsheba to inform David that Adonijah was seeking the throne. David then declared that Solomon should succeed him. The name Nathan also appears in genealogies, including references to a son of David; those occurrences should not automatically be identified with the prophet.
Key References
- 2 Samuel 7:1–17 — Nathan receives the message concerning David’s house.
- 2 Samuel 12:1–15 — Nathan confronts David.
- 1 Kings 1:8–45 — Nathan and Bathsheba address Solomon’s succession.
- 1 Chronicles 17:1–15 — Nathan appears in the account of the LORD’s message to David.
- Luke 3:31 — Nathan appears in Jesus’ genealogy.
Related Terms
- David — The king to whom Nathan delivered the LORD’s messages.
- Bathsheba — Nathan’s ally in bringing Solomon’s succession to David.
- Solomon — The son of David who succeeded him.
- Adonijah — David’s son who sought the throne.