Nadab

Technical Profile

  • Name Meaning: From Hebrew Nādāb (נָדָב), “willing” or “generous.”
  • Period/Era: Divided Kingdom
  • Main References: 1 Kings 15:25–31; 2 Chronicles 13:20–21
  • Key Connections: Son of Jeroboam I; succeeded in the northern throne; assassinated by Baasha, who replaced Jeroboam’s house.

Who was Nadab?

Nadab was the second king of Israel (the Northern Kingdom) after the kingdom split.
He was the son of Jeroboam I and reigned briefly from Tirzah.
Biblical narrative presents his reign as continuing his father’s religious policies.
He was killed by Baasha during a campaign against the Philistine town of Gibbethon.

Key Events & Achievements

  • Accession: Became king of Israel in the second year of Asa king of Judah (1 Kings 15:25).
  • Military Campaign: Participated in the siege of Gibbethon, a Philistine-held site (1 Kings 15:27).
  • Overthrow: Assassinated by Baasha, ending Jeroboam’s dynasty in Israel (1 Kings 15:27–29).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Nadab’s short reign illustrates the instability of the early Northern Kingdom and the rapid turnover of dynasties.

Key Verse

"But Nadab did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and walked in the way of his father, and in his sin which he made Israel to sin." — 1 Kings 15:26, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. How did Nadab’s reign end?

2. Nadab became king of Israel in which year of Asa king of Judah?