### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun `{{H2071}}` (Zâbûwd), transliterated as Zabud, is derived from the verbal root זָבַד (zâbad), which signifies "to bestow," "to give," or "to endow." Consequently, the name Zabud inherently carries the meaning "given" or "bestowed." As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to identifying an individual, but its etymological root points to the concept of a gift, often implying a divine origin or an act of divine provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H2071}}` Zabud appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the listing of King Solomon's chief officials:
* [[1 Kings 4:5]]: "And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend."
In this sole occurrence, Zabud is identified as the son of Nathan. While not explicitly stated, it is widely understood that this Nathan is Nathan the prophet, a pivotal figure during the reigns of David and Solomon. This lineage would place Zabud within a family of significant spiritual and political influence.
Zabud held two distinct and prestigious titles: "principal officer" (כֹּהֵן, *kohen*, often rendered as "priest" but in this context likely meaning a chief minister or advisor, emphasizing his closeness to the king) and "the king's friend" (רֵעַ הַמֶּלֶךְ, *rea‘ hammelekh*). The latter title is particularly noteworthy, signifying an intimate confidant and advisor to the monarch. This esteemed position was previously held by Hushai the Archite under King David ([[2 Samuel 15:37]], [[2 Samuel 16:16]]), underscoring the profound trust and favor Zabud enjoyed with King Solomon. His role suggests a deep personal relationship and significant influence in the affairs of the kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name `{{H2071}}` Zabud is directly related to a family of Hebrew words and names that share the underlying root זָבַד (zâbad), all conveying the idea of giving or bestowing. This connection highlights a common theological thread:
* **זָבַד (zâbad):** The verbal root, meaning "to give," "to bestow," or "to endow." While not a Strong's number itself, it is the conceptual foundation.
* `{{H2067}}` Zabad (זָבָד): A similar name, also meaning "given" or "endowed," borne by several individuals in the Old Testament.
* `{{H2069}}` Zebadiah (זְבַדְיָה): Meaning "Yahweh has bestowed" or "gift of Yahweh," explicitly linking the act of giving to God.
* `{{H2070}}` Zabdi (זַבְדִּי): Meaning "my gift," another name emphasizing the concept of a gift.
These related terms collectively reinforce the theological concept of divine providence and the belief that individuals, their abilities, and their positions are ultimately gifts from God.
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H2071}}` Zabud, meaning "given" or "bestowed," carries subtle yet profound theological significance. In a culture where names often reflected hope, prophecy, or circumstance, Zabud's name suggests that his very existence, and perhaps his remarkable capabilities and elevated status, were seen as a divine endowment.
His unique position as "the king's friend" under Solomon, a king renowned for his wisdom and the prosperity of his reign, further amplifies this significance. It implies that God not only provides a wise king but also surrounds him with divinely gifted and trustworthy advisors. Zabud's loyalty and counsel would have been perceived not merely as human attributes but as blessings from the Almighty, enabling Solomon's successful rule.
The title "king's friend" itself, while applied to an earthly monarch, can echo the profound biblical concept of friendship with God, as seen in Abraham being called "friend of God" ([[Isaiah 41:8]], [[James 2:23]]). While Zabud's friendship is with Solomon, it serves as an earthly reflection of the divine favor and intimacy that can be extended to those who serve God's purposes, even in the secular sphere. His life, though briefly mentioned, stands as a testament to God's provision of individuals for specific roles within His broader plans for humanity and His chosen people.
### Summary
The Hebrew proper noun `{{H2071}}` Zabud (זָבּוּד), meaning "given" or "bestowed," appears once in the biblical narrative, specifically in [[1 Kings 4:5]]. He is identified as the son of Nathan (likely the prophet) and served as a "principal officer" and, most notably, "the king's friend" to King Solomon. This latter title signifies a position of immense trust, intimacy, and influence within the royal court. The name's etymological root, זָבַד (to give), subtly underscores the theological concept of divine endowment, suggesting that Zabud's capabilities and his esteemed position were ultimately gifts from God. His role in Solomon's administration highlights the biblical theme of God's provision of gifted individuals for leadership and service, even within the governance of an earthly kingdom, reflecting the belief that all good gifts originate from the divine.
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