Nebaioth נְבָיוֹת

Nebaioth was the firstborn son of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar (Gen.25.13; 1Ch.1.29). As a descendant of Abraham through Ishmael, Nebaioth became the ancestor of a nomadic tribe that bore his name.

The Nebaioth tribe was known for their large flocks of sheep and goats, which were highly prized for their wool and hair. In Isa.60.7, the prophet foretells a time of future blessing and restoration for Israel, mentioning that the flocks of Nebaioth will be gathered to Jerusalem and offered on the altar, finding acceptance with God.

Nebaioth is also mentioned in connection with Esau, the son of Isaac and the twin brother of Israel (or 'Jacob'). According to Gen.28.9 and Gen.36.3, Esau married Mahalath, the daughter of Ishmael and the sister of Nebaioth, in addition to his other wives. This marriage alliance may have strengthened the ties between the Edomites (descendants of Esau) and the Ishmaelite tribes.

As a nomadic tribe, the descendants of Nebaioth likely inhabited the regions of northern Arabia and the Negev desert. They were part of the larger group of Ishmaelite tribes that played a significant role in the trade and commerce of the ancient Near East.

While little is known about Nebaioth as an individual, his legacy as the ancestor of a prominent tribe reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants through Ishmael would also become great nations (Gen.17.20). The inclusion of the Nebaioth tribe in Isaiah's prophecy suggests that they will have a place in God's future plans for Israel and the nations.