from זֶבֶד and אֵל; gift of God; zabdiel, the name of two Israelites; Zabdiel.
Transliteration:Zabdîyʼêl
Pronunciation:zab-dee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun זַבְדִּיאֵל (Zabdîyʼêl), Strong's H2068, is a compound name derived from two distinct elements: זֶבֶד (zebed, `{{H2067}}`), meaning "gift" or "dowry," and אֵל (El, `{{H410}}`), the common Semitic word for "God." Thus, the name's core meaning is unequivocally "Gift of God." This etymology positions Zabdiel as an anthonym, a name that inherently carries a theological statement. The semantic range of Zabdiel is narrow, primarily functioning as a personal identifier, but its intrinsic meaning speaks volumes about the worldview of those who bore or bestowed the name, emphasizing divine beneficence and sovereignty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zabdiel appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, referring to two distinct individuals, both Israelites:
1. **A Military Commander under David:** In [[1 Chronicles 27:2]], Zabdiel the son of Haggedol is identified as the father of Jashobeam, who commanded the first of David's twenty-four divisions, serving in the first month. This Zabdiel was a significant figure in David's military administration, overseeing 24,000 men. The name "Gift of God" in this context might suggest that his leadership, strategic acumen, or very existence was perceived as a divine endowment, crucial for the strength and order of David's kingdom.
2. **A Priest in the Post-Exilic Community:** In [[Nehemiah 11:14]], Zabdiel the son of Haggedol is mentioned as "chief of the mighty men" among the priests who resettled Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, specifically from the sons of Immer. While bearing the same patronymic "son of Haggedol," the context clearly indicates a priestly role in the post-exilic period, distinct from the Davidic era commander. For a priest, the name "Gift of God" is particularly resonant, as the priesthood itself was a divine institution, and those serving within it were seen as God's chosen instruments, a gift to the community for mediation and instruction. Their very presence and service were a testament to God's continued provision for His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Zabdiel is part of a family of Hebrew words and names centered around the concept of "gift" and divine bestowal.
* **זֶבֶד (zebed, `{{H2067}}`)**: The root word for "gift," from which Zabdiel is partially derived. This root is also seen in names like Zebidah (`{{H2069}}`), meaning "given."
* **אֵל (El, `{{H410}}`)**: The divine element, commonly found in many Hebrew theophoric names (e.g., Michael, Gabriel, Immanuel), signifying a connection to God.
* **Zebadiah (`{{H2074}}`)**: A parallel name meaning "Yahweh has bestowed" or "Yahweh is a gift," demonstrating the same theological concept of divine gifting, but using the tetragrammaton (Yahweh) instead of El.
* **Biblical Concept of Gift**: The Old Testament frequently portrays various blessings as gifts from God, including children (e.g., [[Genesis 30:20]] concerning Zebulun), wisdom (e.g., [[1 Kings 3:11-13]]), land, and salvation. The name Zabdiel participates in this broader theological framework, affirming God as the ultimate source of all good things.
### Theological Significance
The name Zabdiel, "Gift of God," carries profound theological significance. It underscores the biblical worldview that human life, abilities, and even specific roles (like leadership or priesthood) are not accidental or self-generated but are divinely bestowed.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Grace**: The name highlights God's absolute sovereignty and His gracious initiative in giving. It reminds humanity that every good and perfect gift comes from above ([[James 1:17]]).
2. **Parental Piety**: For parents naming their child Zabdiel, it likely reflected a deep sense of gratitude and recognition of God's hand in the child's birth, viewing the child as a direct blessing from the Almighty.
3. **Purpose and Calling**: The name could also implicitly suggest a divine purpose or calling for the individual, indicating that their life was intended to be a blessing or a manifestation of God's generous nature to others. Whether a military leader or a priest, the individual's effectiveness and presence were attributed to divine enablement.
4. **Theological Reflection**: The enduring presence of such names in the biblical record serves as a constant theological reminder that God is the ultimate Giver, and His gifts are manifold, extending even to the individuals who shape the course of sacred history.
### Summary
Zabdiel (`{{H2068}}`), meaning "Gift of God," is a Hebrew proper noun reflecting a profound theological truth about divine beneficence. It designates two distinct individuals in the biblical narrative: a significant military commander in King David's era and a chief priest in the post-exilic community. In both contexts, the name underscores the belief that their lives, roles, and capabilities were direct endowments from God. Zabdiel, along with related names and concepts of divine gifting, serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty, grace, and continuous provision for His people, affirming that all good things ultimately originate from Him.
TRV