Bible Figure
Nathan
human biblical figure in 1 Chronicles 2:36, person in the Hebrew Bible
Nathan was a prophet during David's reign who announced the Davidic covenant, confronted David over his sin with Bathsheba, and helped secure Solomon's succession.
Biography
When David proposed building a house for the Lord, Nathan initially approved, but God sent him back with a different message: David would not establish God's house; instead God would establish David's house, promising an enduring dynasty. Later, after David's adultery with Bathsheba and killing of Uriah, Nathan confronted him through a parable about a rich man who stole a poor man's beloved lamb. When David condemned the offender, Nathan declared, 'You are the man,' exposing David's guilt and announcing consequences. Near the end of David's life, Nathan joined Bathsheba in alerting the king that Adonijah was attempting to seize the throne, leading to Solomon's public installation.
Biblical Significance
Nathan represents prophetic authority standing above royal power. He delivered both the great promise concerning David's house and the uncompromising rebuke of David's sin, showing that covenant privilege did not exempt the king from accountability.