Zebadiah זְבַדְיָהוּ
Chief priest in matters of the Lord
Who is Zebadiah in the Bible?
Zebadiah, son of Ishmael, was a high-ranking official during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah around the 9th century BC. According to 2 Chronicles 19:11, he was appointed as the chief administrator in all matters concerning the king, working in tandem with Amariah, the chief priest, who handled religious affairs. This arrangement reflected Jehoshaphat's effort to establish clear divisions between civil and religious governance in his kingdom. Zebadiah's prominence demonstrates the importance of having capable, organized leadership to support a reforming monarch, and his role illustrates the structured administrative system that characterized Judah's monarchy during this period.
Biography
Zebadiah, the son of Ishmael, held a significant position during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. He was appointed as the leader in all matters concerning the king, working alongside Amariah, the chief priest, who oversaw matters related to the Lord. This dual leadership structure suggests a separation of duties between religious and civil affairs. Zebadiah's role likely involved overseeing administrative and judicial matters on behalf of the king. The mention of his father, Ishmael, may indicate that he came from a prominent family. Zebadiah's appointment reflects Jehoshaphat's efforts to establish a well-organized and efficient government.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book2 Chronicles 1 verse
- 2 Chronicles 19:11
"Note that Amariah, the chief priest, will be over you in all that pertains to the LORD, and Zebadiah son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, in all that pertains to the king. And the Levites will serve as officers before you. Act resolutely; may the LORD be with the..."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | זְבַדְיָהוּ |