Adiel, Father of Azmaveth
Who was Adiel in the Bible?
Adiel was the father of Azmaveth, the high-ranking official overseeing King David's royal storehouses during the Divided Monarchy period.
This is one of 3 people named Adiel in the Bible. See all 3 →
Adiel is a figure mentioned in the genealogical and administrative records of the Old Testament. He lived during the era of the Divided Monarchy, specifically during the transition and formalization of King David’s administrative state. While the biblical text provides limited personal details about Adiel himself, he is identified as a man of status through the prominent career of his son, Azmaveth.
His mention occurs within a list of David's chief officials, highlighting the structured nature of the Judean government during this pivotal era. The name Adiel translates to 'Ornament of God' or 'God is Witness,' reflecting a common theophoric naming convention of the period.
Background and Family
Adiel appears in the biblical record within the administrative registries found in the book of 1 Chronicles. He is defined primarily by his patrilineal relationship to Azmaveth. In the socio-political structure of the Hebrew monarchy, family lineage served as a primary means of identification and social standing. The fact that Adiel’s son held a high-ranking position within King David’s inner circle suggests that Adiel likely belonged to a family of significant influence or noble standing within his tribe, although his specific tribal affiliation is not explicitly stated in the text.
Major Life Events
The biblical text does not record specific events from the life of Adiel, such as his birth, death, or personal deeds. His historical footprint is preserved exclusively through his son's role in the royal court. As the father of the man in charge of the royal storehouses, Adiel lived through the consolidation of the Israelite kingdom. His legacy is tied to the transition of Israel from a loosely organized group of tribes into a centralized, bureaucratic monarchy under the Davidic line.
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Adiel’s most significant relationship is with his son, Azmaveth. According to 1 Chronicles 27:25, Azmaveth was a key official under King David. The text notes:
"Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the royal storehouses."
This position was one of great trust and responsibility, as the royal storehouses (the otzarot) held the wealth, grain, and resources of the kingdom. Adiel’s role as the patriarch of this household places him in the social orbit of David’s most trusted administrators, alongside figures like Jonathan son of Uzziah and the various tribal leaders of the time.
Spiritual Significance
While Adiel does not perform any recorded miracles or deliver prophetic messages, his presence in the Chronicles serves a specific literary and theological purpose. The chronicler emphasizes the order and divine appointment of the Davidic administration. Adiel is included to provide the legal and historical grounding for his son's authority. In the context of 1 Chronicles, every name listed in the royal service is a testament to the fulfillment of God’s promise to establish David’s throne and provide the necessary infrastructure for the nation to flourish.
Adiel’s significance lies in his contribution to the genealogical continuity and administrative stability of the Kingdom of Judah. By providing the lineage for Azmaveth, Adiel represents the generational support system that enabled the Davidic monarchy to function effectively. His inclusion in the sacred record reinforces the biblical theme that God uses specific individuals and their families to maintain the order of His covenant people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Adiel's son?
Adiel's son was Azmaveth, who served as the official in charge of King David's royal storehouses.
In which book of the Bible is this Adiel mentioned?
This Adiel is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 27:25.
What does the name Adiel mean?
The name Adiel is Hebrew for 'Ornament of God' or 'God is Witness.'
What was Adiel's occupation?
The Bible does not state Adiel's specific occupation, only that his son held a high position in the royal administration.
What tribe did Adiel belong to?
The biblical text in 1 Chronicles 27 does not specify Adiel's tribe, though he was part of the Judean administrative records.
Family & Relationships
Adiel, Father of AzmavethThis pageChildren
Azmaveth, son of AdielSon1 Chronicles 27:25Stated
Connected Figures
Family
Son · 1 Chronicles 27:25
An official in the administration of King David responsible for the royal storehouses during the Divided Monarchy period.
United MonarchyFirst: 1 Chronicles 27:251 versesOverseer of the Royal Storehouses
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 1 Chronicles1
Scripture References
All 1 indexed verse, in canonical order, from the Berean Standard Bible.
1 Chronicles · 1
- 1 Chronicles 27:25
Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the royal storehouses. Jonathan son of Uzziah was in charge of the storehouses in the country, in the cities, in the villages, and in the fortresses.
Others Named Adiel
Compare all 3 bearers →Adiel, Simeonite of the Divided Monarchy1 Chronicles 4:36
A prominent prince or leader within the tribe of Simeon during the Divided Monarchy who is recorded in the genealogical records of the Chronicler.
Adiel, Priest of the Post-Exilic Period1 Chronicles 9:12
A priest of the tribe of Levi and descendant of Immer whose family served in Jerusalem following the return from Babylonian exile.