from זֶבֶד; giving; Zabdi, the name of four Israelites; Zabdi.
Transliteration:Zabdîy
Pronunciation:zab-dee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun זַבְדִּי (Zabdîy), Strong's number `{{H2067}}`, is derived from the root זֶבֶד (zebed), Strong's number `{{H2066}}`, which means "a gift" or "a dowry." Consequently, Zabdîy translates literally to "my gift" or "gift of Yah/God." This name falls within the common category of Hebrew theophoric names, which implicitly or explicitly attribute a quality or action to God. In this case, the name affirms God as the source of a gift, or the individual bearing the name is considered a gift from God. Its semantic range is therefore tightly bound to the concept of divine beneficence and provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zabdîy appears in the Old Testament referring to at least four distinct individuals, spanning various tribes and periods of Israelite history:
1. **Zabdi, son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah:** This Zabdi is most prominently known as the grandfather of Achan, who notoriously took devoted things from Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai and subsequent judgment ([[Joshua 7:1]], [[Joshua 7:17]], [[Joshua 7:18]]). The inclusion of Zabdi in Achan's lineage emphasizes the familial ties and the collective responsibility within the tribal structure. The irony of a name meaning "my gift" in the lineage of one who *took* what was consecrated to God is a poignant theological note.
2. **Zabdi, a Benjamite:** Listed in the genealogies of Benjamin as a son of Shim'i ([[1 Chronicles 8:19]]). This occurrence provides no further contextual details beyond his lineage.
3. **Zabdi, a Korahite:** Identified as one of David's mighty men who joined him at Ziklag, a group described as valiant warriors with diverse skills ([[1 Chronicles 12:7]]). This Zabdi served King David, contributing his strength and loyalty to the nascent kingdom.
4. **Zabdi the Shiphmite:** Appointed by King David to oversee the produce of the vineyards for the wine cellars ([[1 Chronicles 27:27]]). This indicates a role of administrative responsibility and stewardship over significant resources, highlighting a practical application of the concept of God's provision.
5. **Zabdi, son of Asaph:** Mentioned as a Levite, a chief of the singers, whose lineage is traced through Asaph ([[Nehemiah 11:17]]). This Zabdi was involved in the post-exilic temple worship, indicating a role in the spiritual and liturgical life of the community.
Across these occurrences, the name Zabdîy is borne by individuals in diverse roles—from a forefather in a lineage associated with sin to valiant warriors, administrators, and worship leaders. While the most detailed narrative involves the grandfather of Achan, the name itself consistently points to the divine source of life and calling, regardless of the individual's actions or circumstances.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root noun זֶבֶד (zebed, `{{H2066}}`), which directly signifies "a gift" or "a dowry." This connection underscores the core meaning of Zabdîy. Other Hebrew terms for "gift" or "offering" include:
* מַתָּנָה (mattana, `{{H4976}}`), a general term for a gift.
* מַתָּן (mattan, `{{H4979}}`), often referring to a gift or present.
* מִנְחָה (minchah, `{{H4991}}`), typically an offering or tribute, but also a gift.
* נְדָבָה (nedavah, `{{H5078}}`), a freewill offering or spontaneous gift.
The concept of "gift" is central to biblical theology, encompassing God's gifts to humanity (life, land, law, salvation) and human gifts to God (offerings, service, worship). The name Zabdîy thus participates in this broader theological landscape of divine provision and human response. As a theophoric name, it also connects to other names that celebrate God's giving nature, such as Jonathan ("Yahweh has given") or Nathan ("He has given").
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Zabdîy lies primarily in its affirmation of God as the ultimate Giver. The name "my gift" implicitly acknowledges that the individual, their existence, and their capabilities are all from God. This resonates with the biblical truth that "every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights" ([[James 1:17]]).
The most striking theological implication arises from the Zabdi who was Achan's grandfather. A name celebrating divine generosity stands in stark contrast to the sin of Achan, who *took* what belonged to God and brought judgment upon Israel. This juxtaposition serves as a profound reminder: even those born under names that declare God's goodness can fall into sin by coveting and taking what is not theirs. It highlights the human capacity for rebellion against the divine Giver, and the tragic irony of misusing or rejecting the very gifts that flow from God.
For the other individuals named Zabdi, their roles as warriors, administrators, or worship leaders can be seen as manifestations of how God's "gifts" (the individuals themselves and their abilities) are utilized in service to His purposes, whether in the practical administration of the kingdom or in the sacred realm of worship. The name serves as a constant, if subtle, theological statement about the source of all blessings and the call to stewardship of those divine endowments.
### Summary
Zabdîy (`{{H2067}}`), meaning "my gift" and derived from the root for "gift" (`{{H2066}}`), is a Hebrew proper noun appearing in the Old Testament as the name of four distinct Israelites. While the most notable Zabdi is the grandfather of Achan, whose sin of taking forbidden items creates a poignant irony with the name's meaning, other individuals named Zabdi served in various capacities, including a Benjamite, one of David's mighty men, an administrator over vineyards, and a chief singer. The name consistently underscores the theological truth of God as the ultimate Giver of all things, from life itself to specific talents and roles. It serves as a reminder of divine provision and the human responsibility to rightly steward the gifts received from God, even in the face of human failure and disobedience.
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