Bible Person

Jonadab

Meaning: who gives liberally · Male · 7 cross references

This Jonadab entry refers to Jonadab son of Shammah, David's nephew, not Jonadab or Jehonadab son of Rechab. He is best known for the cunning counsel that enables Amnon's assault on Tamar. First appears in 2 Sam 13:3.1

AI summary: This Jonadab matters because the cross references present him as a shrewd but morally destructive figure inside David's extended family. He recognizes Amnon's desire, devises the deceptive plan that makes Tamar vulnerable, and later speaks with unsettling composure once the tragedy unfolds. A later notice also places him among David's wise men, which sharpens the irony of misused intelligence. Taken together, the material presents this Jonadab as a dangerous counselor whose cleverness serves corruption rather than justice.1

Central Figure

Jonadab

Meaning: who gives liberally

Son of Shammah, and David’s nephew, and also one of his chief warriors (2 Sam.