Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(given). (1) Distinguished prophet, and royal adviser and biographer of David and Solomon (2 Sam. 7:2-17; 12:1-22; 1 Kings 1:8-45; 1 Chron. 29:29; 2 Chron. 9:29). (2) A son of David by Bathsheba (1 Chron. 3:5; Luke 3:31). (3) Father of one of David’s warriors (2 Sam. 23:36). (4) A returned captive (Ezra 8:16).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
1. Son of David and Bathsheba (2 Sam. 5:14; 1 Chron. 3:5; 1 Chron. 14:4; Luke 3:31).
2. The prophet, who held an influential position during the reigns of David and Solomon. He is first mentioned when David had in his heart to build a house to Jehovah. Nathan at first encouraged the proposition, but afterward had a special message from God to direct David otherwise. It was Nathan who had to condemn David’s conduct with respect to Bathsheba and her husband; he delicately brought the sin home to his conscience by means of a suited parable. He also took a prominent part in securing the throne for Solomon (2 Sam. 7:2-17; 2 Sam. 12:1-25; 1 Kings 1:8-45; 1 Chron. 17:1-15; 2 Chron. 29:25; Psa. 51 Title). He wrote a “book” containing the Acts of David the king and of Solomon, which does not form a part of scripture (1 Chron. 29:29; 2 Chron. 9:29).
3. Man of Zobah, father of Igal (2 Sam. 23:36).
4. Father of Azariah and Zabud (1 Kings 4:5).
5. Son of Attai, and father of Zabad (1 Chron. 2:36).
6. Brother of Joel, one of David’s mighty men (1 Chron. 11:38).
7. One who returned from exile (Ezra 8:16).
8. One who had married a strange wife (Ezra 10:39).
9. A chief man in Israel, whose family will mourn apart (Zech. 12:12). Perhaps a reference to the family of No. 2.
Jackson’s Dictionary of Scripture Proper Names:
a giver