Kedar

Kedar (meaning dark-skinned or sorrow) was the second son of Ishmael (Genesis 25:13) and the ancestor of a powerful confederation of Arab tribes that inhabited the desert regions between Arabia and the Fertile Crescent. The Kedarites became one of the most prominent desert peoples of the ancient Near East, known as skilled archers and traders who managed vast flocks and drove the caravan trade routes through the Syrian and Arabian deserts. Their black tents became proverbial: the Song of Solomon's opening verse compares the beloved to the tents of Kedar as a symbol of striking, sun-darkened beauty.

The prophets addressed Kedar frequently, reflecting the tribe's significance as a contemporary geopolitical force. Isaiah 21:16–17 and 42:11 refer to Kedar in oracles concerning the desert peoples; Jeremiah 2:10 uses the Kedarites as an example of nations loyal to their gods in contrast to faithless Israel. Ezekiel 27:21 lists Kedar among the trading partners of Tyre, supplying lambs, rams, and goats. Psalm 120:5 expresses the anguish of dwelling among those who hate peace by comparing it to sojourning with Kedar. In later tradition, the Kedarites were identified with the Arabs and the lineage of the Prophet Muhammad traces through Ishmael.