Jozabad יוֹזָבָד
A Manassite leader who joined David at Ziklag
Who is Jozabad in the Bible?
Jozabad was a leader from the tribe of Manasseh who joined David at Ziklag during David's exile from King Saul, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 12:20. He was one of several Manassite commanders, including Adnah, Michael, Jediael, Elihu, and Zillethai, who deserted Saul's army to support David after the Philistine commanders dismissed David from their ranks. These men were described as mighty warriors and army commanders who provided crucial military strength to David during his vulnerable period. The significance of Jozabad and the other Manassite leaders lies in their loyalty to David during his time of conflict, demonstrating the widespread support he garnered among Israel's fighting men even while fleeing from Saul's persecution.
Biography
Jozabad is one of two men of that name in 1Ch.12.20 who were leaders from the tribe of Manasseh who joined David at Ziklag. The context of the passage is the listing of the warriors who allied themselves with David during his time of exile and conflict with King Saul (1Ch.12.1-22).
When David was returning to Ziklag, after being dismissed by the Philistine commanders who were suspicious of his loyalty, several Manassite leaders deserted Saul's army and joined David (1Ch.12.19-20). Jozabad is named among these leaders, along with Adnah, Michael, Jediael, Elihu, and Zillethai (1Ch.12.20).
These Manassite leaders were described as mighty men of valor and commanders in the army (1Ch.12.21). They provided significant military support to David, helping him in his raids against the Geshurites, Girzites, and Amalekites, who had attacked and plundered Ziklag (1Ch.12.21; 1Sa.30.1-20).
In Scripture
1 biblical book1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 12:20
"When David went to Ziklag, these men of Manasseh defected to him: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai, chiefs of thousands in Manasseh."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | יוֹזָבָד |