Overview
Midian was born to Abraham and his wife Keturah after Sarah's death (Genesis 25:2). His descendants settled in northwestern Arabia and became known as the Midianites, playing important roles throughout Scripture as traders, shepherds, and sometimes adversaries of Israel.
Key Scriptures
"Abraham took another wife, whose name was Keturah. She bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah" (Genesis 25:1-2, ESV).
"The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. All these were the children of Keturah" (Genesis 25:4, ESV).
"The sons of Keturah, Abraham's concubine: she bore Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah" (1 Chronicles 1:32, ESV).
Application
Understanding Midian's lineage reminds us that God's promises extended beyond Isaac, and that all nations descend from common ancestors, emphasizing human dignity and God's sovereignty over all peoples.