### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Zabdîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H2068}}`, means **"gift of God"**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible and is the name given to two different Israelites. The name itself is derived from the words for "gift" and "God," signifying a divinely bestowed blessing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2068}}` identifies two individuals in positions of responsibility. The first is mentioned as the father of Jashobeam{H3434}, who was in charge of the first{H7223} military **course**{H4256} of twenty{H6242} and four{H702} thousand{H505} men [[1 Chronicles 27:2]]. The second is Zabdiel himself, an **overseer**{H6496} of one hundred{H3967} twenty{H6242} and eight{H8083} **mighty men**{H1368} of **valour**{H2428} and the **son**{H1121} of one of the **great men**{H1419} [[Nehemiah 11:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles associated with Zabdiel:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty man): This word for **powerful** or a warrior is used to describe the men Zabdiel supervised [[Nehemiah 11:14]]. It is also used to describe God, as in "The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is **mighty**" [[Zephaniah 3:17]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (valour): Describing a force of men, means, or other resources, this term qualifies the character of Zabdiel's men [[Nehemiah 11:14]]. It is also used to describe virtue, as in the search for a **virtuous** woman [[Proverbs 31:10]].
* `{{H6496}}` **pâqîyd** (overseer): This term defines Zabdiel's role as a **superintendent** [[Nehemiah 11:14]]. This same title is used for the chief governor in the house of the LORD [[Jeremiah 20:1]] and for officers appointed by Pharaoh [[Genesis 41:34]].
* `{{H4256}}` **machălôqeth** (course): This word refers to a section or division of people or soldiers. It describes the large military unit commanded by the son of the first Zabdiel [[1 Chronicles 27:2]]. The term is also used for the divisions of priests and Levites for service [[2 Chronicles 31:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2068}}` is tied directly to its meaning and the contexts in which it appears.
* **Divine Gifting:** The name "gift of God" frames the individuals and their capacities as originating from God. It suggests that leadership and ability are not merely human achievements but are divinely appointed.
* **Stewardship and Responsibility:** Both men named Zabdiel are linked to significant leadership. One is an **overseer**{H6496} of capable men, and the other is the father of a high-ranking commander. This connects the idea of a "gift" with the duty of managing people and resources for the nation of Israel ([[1 Chronicles 27:2]], [[Nehemiah 11:14]]).
* **Organized Strength:** Zabdiel's role overseeing **mighty men**{H1368} of **valour**{H2428} demonstrates that strength and military prowess were organized and stewarded within the community. This organized force, under a leader whose name means "gift of God," points to a divinely ordered structure for the protection and administration of God's people.
### Summary
In summary, **Zabdîyʼêl** `{{H2068}}` is a name that, while rare, carries the significant meaning of "gift of God." The two individuals who bear this name are connected to positions of military and community leadership, serving as an **overseer**{H6496} and as the father of a commander over a large **course**{H4256} of soldiers. The name and its context underscore the biblical theme that positions of authority and the strength to fulfill them are divinely granted gifts, integrated into the life and structure of Israel.
TRV