Shaul שָׁאוּל

Male Tribe of Levi H7586J 1 book

Levite descendant of Kohath

Who is Shaul in the Bible?

Shaul was a Levite descended from Kohath, one of the sons of Levi, and appears in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles 6:24 and 6:36. He is listed as the son of Uzziah and the father of Uriel, though his name also appears as Joel in some textual variations. As a member of the Kohathite division of the Levites, Shaul belonged to the priestly lineage responsible for carrying the sacred objects of the tabernacle during Israel's wilderness journey. His inclusion in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles establishes his place within Israel's religious hierarchy and demonstrates the continuity of the Levitic priesthood throughout generations.

Biography

Shaul (or Joel), mentioned in 1Ch.6.24 and 1Ch.6.36, was a Levite who descended from Kohath, one of the sons of Levi. In the genealogical records of the Levites, Shaul is listed as the son of Uzziah and the father of Uriel. The name Shaul is used in verse 24, while Joel is used in verse 36, likely due to textual variations or scribal differences. The Kohathites were one of the major divisions of the Levites and were responsible for carrying the sacred objects of the tabernacle during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The genealogy in 1 Chronicles 6 traces the lineage of the Levites, particularly the descendants of Kohath, highlighting their important role in the religious life of Israel. The mention of Shaul (or Joel) in this genealogy establishes his place within the Levitical lineage and emphasizes the continuity of the Kohathite family in their sacred duties.

Family

In Scripture

1 biblical book
1 Chronicles 2 verses
  • 1 Chronicles 6:24

    "Tahath his son, Uriel his son, Uzziah his son, and Shaul his son."

  • 1 Chronicles 6:36

    "the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,"

Names & Aliases

Form Language Script Meaning
Named Hebrew שָׁאוּל Shaul , the name of an Edomite and two Israelites
Named Hebrew יוֹאֵל Joel , the name of twelve Israelites