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Natan HaNavi, or Nathan the prophet, was a prophet during the time periods of King David and King Solomon. His actions are described in the books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles.
Notable Sources
All Sources
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The Chronicles of Solomon
TANAKH
The chronicle of the prophet Nathan provides a unique perspective on the reign of King Solomon, alongside the prophecies of Ahijah the Shilonite and the visions of Jedo the seer. II Chronicles, the second half of the last book of the Hebrew Bible, documents the reign of King Solomon and includes references to these prophetic sources.
David's Concern for the Ark
TANAKH
King David, dwelling in his own luxurious living conditions, is deeply concerned about the humble dwelling of the ark. In the biblical narrative of Samuel II, King David expresses his desire to build a more fitting dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant, highlighting his reverence for God.
The Limits of Human Judgment
JEWISH THOUGHT
Human logic and reasoning are fallible when compared to divine wisdom. Rabbi Isaac Arama’s 15th-century work, Akeidat Yitzchak, uses the examples of the prophets Samuel and Nathan to illustrate the limitations of human judgment.
Nathan's Strategic Intervention
SECOND TEMPLE
The prophet Nathan played a crucial role in ensuring Solomon's succession to the throne by advising Bathsheba to approach King David. Josephus' historical account in 'The Antiquities of the Jews' details Nathan's strategic intervention to counter Adonijah's self-declaration as king.
The Lost Writings of Natan and Gad
COMMENTARY
The writings attributed to Natan the prophet and Gad the seer may refer to lost works or to the latter parts of the book of Samuel, suggesting that these prophets completed the book after Samuel's death. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz's modern translation and commentary on the Hebrew Bible explores the historical records of King David's reign, emphasizing the significance of oral and written traditions in preserving Jewish history.
Divine Authority vs. Human Power
COMMENTARY
The story of King David and the prophet Natan highlights the tension between human power and divine authority. This biblical narrative illustrates how even a powerful king like David is held accountable by God through the intervention of the prophet Natan.
The Prophetic Rebuke
CHASIDUT
The prophet Natan's rebuke of King David is a powerful example of immediate and personal prophetic judgment. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov's Likutei Moharan recounts the biblical story where Natan uses a parable to lead David to self-judgment for his sin with Bathsheba.
Nathan's Prophetic Wisdom
COMMENTARY
Nathan the prophet's strategic guidance ensured Solomon's succession to the throne, showcasing his prophetic knowledge and political acumen. The Tze'enah Ure'enah, a late 16th-century Yiddish commentary, provides accessible explanations of biblical texts, making it ideal for those not fluent in Hebrew.
David's Plea for Mercy
COMMENTARY
David's heartfelt plea for mercy and forgiveness after his sin with Batsheva reveals the depth of his remorse and his yearning for spiritual cleansing. Psalm 51, traditionally recited during times of repentance, especially Yom Kippur, captures King David's profound plea for forgiveness and highlights themes of mercy and repentance.
Natan's Stand Against King David
SECOND TEMPLE
Natan courageously confronted King David, showcasing the power of standing up for righteousness even against a powerful ruler. Ben Sira, a second-century BCE wisdom text, offers ethical teachings and historical reflections, including the story of Natan's bold stance.
Nathan's Role in Solomon's Anointing
TANAKH
The prophet Nathan played a crucial role in ensuring Solomon's legitimacy as king by orchestrating his anointing. The biblical narrative in Kings I describes how Nathan, along with Zadok and Benaiah, led Solomon to Gihon on King David’s mule to anoint him as king.
David's Temple Ambition
MIDRASH
David's immediate and proactive actions to build the Temple demonstrate his piety, while God's intervention highlights divine concern to prevent potential embarrassment. Louis Ginzberg's 'Legends of the Jews' offers a rich synthesis of Jewish folklore and biblical stories, including the narrative of King David's desire to build the First Temple.
Trusted Advisors in King Solomon's Court
COMMENTARY
The roles and appointments of Azaryahu and Zavud, sons of Natan, highlight the importance of trusted advisors in the ancient Israelite monarchy. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz’s modern translation and commentary on the Hebrew Bible provides clarity and accessibility to the administrative structure of King Solomon's court.
Divine Message to Natan
COMMENTARY
Natan received a direct message from God, which includes the significant Davidic Covenant. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz’s modern translation and commentary on the Hebrew Bible makes this divine revelation accessible and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.
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