Ammiel עַמִּיאֵל
Father of Machir, David's ally
Who is Ammiel in the Bible?
Ammiel was a man from Lo-debar whose son Machir played a significant role in King David's life (2 Samuel 9:4-5). Though Ammiel himself is not directly quoted or featured in major biblical events, his son Machir became known for his loyalty to David, first as the caretaker of Mephibosheth, Jonathan's disabled son, and later as a crucial supporter during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27). When David fled Jerusalem, Machir joined Shobi and Barzillai in bringing food and supplies to sustain the king and his followers. Ammiel's significance lies primarily in being the father of such a faithful ally, demonstrating how families of faith supported Israel's monarchy during times of crisis.
Biography
Ammiel was the father of Machir, a man from Lo-debar who played a significant role in the life of King David. When David inquired about the whereabouts of Jonathan's son Mephibosheth, he was told that Mephibosheth was living in the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, in Lo-debar. Later, during Absalom's rebellion, when David fled from Jerusalem, Machir, along with Shobi and Barzillai, brought supplies to David and his people, including beds, basins, earthen vessels, wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, curds, sheep, and cheese.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book2 Samuel 3 verses
- 2 Samuel 9:4
"“Where is he?” replied the king. And Ziba said, “Indeed, he is in Lo-debar at the house of Machir son of Ammiel.”"
- 2 Samuel 9:5
"So King David had him brought from the house of Machir son of Ammiel in Lo-debar."
- 2 Samuel 17:27
"When David came to Mahanaim, he was met by Shobi son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Machir son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | עַמִּיאֵל |