Question 69: Who were the Ishmaelites?

Answer:

They were descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son and were divided into twelve tribes (Genesis 25:16; Genesis 16:15, 16). They were also called Hagarites, Hagarenes and Arabians (1 Chronicles 5:10; Psalm 83:6; Isaiah 13:20). They were governed by kings, were rich in cattle and dwelt in tents (Jeremiah 25:24; Isaiah 13-20; 1 Chronicles 5:21). Though they were the merchants of the East and travelled around in large caravans (Genesis 37:25; Job 6:19), they were frequently lawless and would waylay and plunder travellers (Jeremiah 3:2). After harassing Israel, they were overcome by Gideon (Judges 8:10-24; 2 Chronicles 5:10; 2 Chronicles 26:7). It would seem that later they became more peacefully inclined, as they sent presents to Kings Solomon and Jehoshaphat (1 Kings 10:15; 2 Chronicles 17:11).