Editing Rechabites (section)

==Biblical sources==
One theory is the Rechabites belonged to the [[Kenite]]s, who accompanied the [[Israelites]] into the [[Holy Land]] and dwelt among them; the sources of information are few and unclear. Kenites dwelt in cities and adopted settled habits of life.<ref>{{bibleverse|1 Samuel|30:29|HE}}</ref> Whoever he was, Jehonadab ben Rechab forbade his descendants to drink wine, to own land or vineyards, or to live in cities.<ref>{{CathEncy|wstitle=Rechab and the Rechabites}}</ref> They were commanded to always lead a nomadic life.

The Rechabites adhered to the law laid down by [[Jehonadab]], and were noted for their fidelity to the old established custom of their family in the days of [[Jeremiah]];<ref>[[Jeremiah 35]]</ref> and this feature of their character is referred to by God for the purpose of giving point to his message to the [[King of Judah]].<ref>{{bibleverse|Jeremiah|35:14|HE}}</ref><ref>They are referred to in {{bibleverse|Nehemiah|3:14|HE}} and {{bibleverse|1|Chronicles|2:55|HE}}</ref> As a reward for their fidelity, God proclaims that there will always be a descendant of [[Jehonadab|Jonadab]] in his service.