2 Samuel 8:17

And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, [were] the priests; and Seraiah [was] the scribe;

And Zadok {H6659} the son {H1121} of Ahitub {H285}, and Ahimelech {H288} the son {H1121} of Abiathar {H54}, were the priests {H3548}; and Seraiah {H8304} was the scribe {H5608};

Tzadok the son of Achituv and Achimelekh the son of Evyatar were cohanim, S'rayah was secretary,

Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests; Seraiah was the scribe;

and Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were priests; and Seraiah was scribe;

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of a list of key officials in King David's administration, following a series of significant military victories that solidified his reign. Second Samuel chapter 8 details David's expansion of his kingdom, subjugating surrounding nations like the Philistines, Moabites, Syrians, and Edomites. With peace and territorial control established, David turns his attention to organizing the internal structure of his government. This verse highlights the appointment of crucial personnel responsible for the spiritual and administrative well-being of the nation, demonstrating David's commitment to both religious observance and effective governance, fulfilling the promise of God making David's name great.

Key Themes

  • David's Organized Administration: The listing of specific officials underscores David's wisdom and foresight in establishing a well-structured government. He understood the need for clear roles and responsibilities to manage a growing kingdom.
  • The Dual Priesthood: The mention of Zadok and Ahimelech (son of Abiathar) as priests is significant. Historically, Zadok was from the line of Eleazar, and Abiathar (son of Ahimelech, who was the priest at Nob, 1 Samuel 22:20) was from the line of Ithamar. While the KJV states "Ahimelech the son of Abiathar," many scholars interpret this as a scribal variation or perhaps a reference to Abiathar himself, who served prominently alongside Zadok throughout much of David's reign. This dual priesthood represented the two main branches of Aaron's descendants, ensuring comprehensive spiritual guidance for the nation.
  • Importance of the Scribe: Seraiah is listed as the scribe. The role of a scribe (Hebrew: sopher) in ancient Israel was far more than just copying documents. They served as royal secretaries, record-keepers, legal advisors, and often managed royal correspondence and archives. This position was vital for the smooth operation of the kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV rendering "Ahimelech the son of Abiathar" has been a point of scholarly discussion. Throughout other parts of Scripture, Abiathar is consistently identified as the son of Ahimelech (e.g., 1 Samuel 22:20, 2 Samuel 20:25). It is widely understood that Abiathar, son of Ahimelech, was the priest who served alongside Zadok. This particular phrasing in 2 Samuel 8:17 may be a textual variant, a scribal error, or perhaps indicates a son of Abiathar also named Ahimelech who served alongside his father. For a general audience, the key takeaway remains the presence of two chief priestly figures.

Significance and Application

This verse offers insights into effective leadership and the integration of spiritual and civil authority. David, a man after God's own heart, understood the importance of both spiritual guidance and efficient administration for his kingdom. His appointment of priests and a scribe highlights:

  • Godly Governance: Just as God is a God of order, so too is His expectation for human governance. David's meticulous organization reflects a commitment to responsible leadership.
  • The Value of Diverse Gifts: David surrounded himself with individuals possessing different crucial skills – spiritual leaders (priests) and administrative experts (scribes). This reminds us of the importance of valuing and utilizing diverse gifts within any organization or community, including the church.
  • The Enduring Need for Structure: From ancient kingdoms to modern institutions, sound structure and clear roles are essential for stability and progress. This principle is timeless and applies to families, churches, and governments today, emphasizing that governing authorities are ordained by God.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 18:16 (4 votes)

    And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Abimelech the son of Abiathar, [were] the priests; and Shavsha was scribe;

  • 1 Chronicles 6:8 (4 votes)

    And Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,

  • 1 Chronicles 24:3 (3 votes)

    And David distributed them, both Zadok of the sons of Eleazar, and Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar, according to their offices in their service.

  • 1 Chronicles 24:4 (3 votes)

    And there were more chief men found of the sons of Eleazar than of the sons of Ithamar; and [thus] were they divided. Among the sons of Eleazar [there were] sixteen chief men of the house of [their] fathers, and eight among the sons of Ithamar according to the house of their fathers.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:39 (3 votes)

    And Zadok the priest, and his brethren the priests, before the tabernacle of the LORD in the high place that [was] at Gibeon,

  • 1 Chronicles 6:53 (2 votes)

    Zadok his son, Ahimaaz his son.