### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Zebach**, represented by `{{H2078}}`, refers to a **Midianitish prince**. It appears **12 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. All occurrences are found within the narrative of Gideon's campaign against the Midianites and in a later psalm that references this event, establishing **Zebach** as a significant figure among the enemies of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2078}}` is exclusively used to identify one of the two kings of Midian whom Gideon pursued. He is always mentioned alongside his counterpart, **Zalmunna** `{{H6759}}`. Following a major battle where 120,000 Midianite soldiers **fell** `{{H5307}}`, Gideon continues to **pursue** `{{H7291}}` **Zebach** and Zalmunna, who fled with the remnant of their **hosts** `{{H4264}}` ([[Judges 8:5]], [[Judges 8:10]]). The pursuit leads Gideon to Succoth, where the **princes** `{{H8269}}` refuse to provide bread for his weary army, as **Zebach** and Zalmunna had not yet been captured [[Judges 8:6]]. Gideon eventually **took** `{{H3920}}` the two kings and **discomfited** `{{H2729}}` their entire army [[Judges 8:12]]. The account concludes with Gideon confronting and slaying **Zebach** and Zalmunna after they confess to killing men who "resembled the children of a king" ([[Judges 8:18]], [[Judges 8:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the narrative surrounding **Zebach**:
* `{{H6759}}` **Tsalmunnaʻ** (Zalmunna): The other Midianite king, whose name always appears alongside **Zebach**. He shares the same fate, being pursued, captured, and slain by Gideon [[Judges 8:21]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (to smite with deadly intent; slay): This word marks the violent conclusion of the conflict. Gideon asks **Zebach** and Zalmunna about the men they **slew** `{{H2026}}` at Tabor, and then Gideon himself arose and **slew** `{{H2026}}` the two kings ([[Judges 8:18]], [[Judges 8:21]]).
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after; pursue): This term defines Gideon's relentless action against the Midianite kings. He states, "I am **pursuing** after Zebah and Zalmunna" [[Judges 8:5]], and the text confirms that he **pursued** `{{H7291}}` after them when they fled [[Judges 8:12]].
* `{{H3920}}` **lâkad** (to catch; capture or occupy; take): This word signifies the turning point in Gideon's pursuit, where he successfully captured his targets. The narrative states that Gideon "and **took** the two kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna" [[Judges 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2078}}` is tied to its role in the story of God's judgment on Israel's enemies.
* **Symbol of Defeated Enemies:** **Zebach** becomes an archetype of a defeated foe. In a prayer for divine justice, the psalmist asks God to make Israel's enemies and their princes like **Zebach** and Zalmunna [[Psalms 83:11]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The victory over **Zebach** is attributed to God. Gideon's confidence is rooted in his belief that "the LORD hath **delivered** `{{H5414}}` Zebah and Zalmunna into mine hand" [[Judges 8:7]], underscoring that the triumph is an act of God, not merely of man.
* **Retribution for Iniquity:** The execution of **Zebach** serves as an act of retribution. His death is directly linked to his admission of having slain Israelites at Tabor, demonstrating a biblical theme of justice for the wicked [[Judges 8:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2078}}` is the name of a Midianite king whose story is a key part of Gideon's victory. While simply a name, **Zebach** functions as a historical and theological marker. He represents the leaders of hostile nations who are decisively overthrown by God's power working through His chosen leader. The account of his pursuit, capture, and execution serves as a lasting biblical illustration of divine judgment and sovereignty in the face of opposition to Israel.
TRV