the same as עֶבֶד; Ebed, the name of two Israelites; Ebed.
Transliteration:ʻEbed
Pronunciation:eh'-bed
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H5651 (עֶבֶד, transliterated as ʻEbed) is primarily a proper noun, referring to the name "Ebed." Its core meaning is directly derived from the common noun H5650 (עֶבֶד), which signifies "servant," "slave," or "bondservant." Thus, the name "Ebed" inherently carries the semantic weight of "servant" or "worshipper." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its function as a personal name, but its etymological root imbues it with profound theological and social connotations. It reflects a state of belonging, submission, or dedicated service, often in relation to a master, a deity, or a community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper name H5651 appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, referring to two distinct individuals:
1. **Ebed, father of Gaal:** In [[Judges 9:26]], Ebed is identified as the father of Gaal, who led a rebellion against Abimelech, the self-proclaimed king of Shechem. The narrative describes Gaal, son of Ebed, coming to Shechem and inciting the citizens to revolt. In this context, the name "Ebed" (servant) for the father of a rebel leader might be seen as ironic, highlighting the contentious nature of authority and service in a period of political instability. Gaal's challenge to Abimelech, "Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him?" [[Judges 9:28]], directly contrasts with the very meaning of his father's name, emphasizing a rejection of human servitude in favor of a different allegiance.
2. **Ebed, son of Jonathan:** In [[Ezra 8:5]], Ebed is listed among those who returned with Ezra from the Babylonian exile. Specifically, he is identified as "of the sons of Shecaniah, of the sons of Zattu, Ebed the son of Jonathan." This Ebed is part of a community committed to rebuilding Jerusalem and re-establishing the worship of Yahweh. In this context, the name "Ebed" resonates positively, signifying a devoted "servant" of God, participating in the restoration of the covenant community. His inclusion in this list suggests a role in the spiritual and physical rebuilding efforts, aligning well with the concept of faithful servitude.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to H5651 is its root, H5650 (עֶבֶד), the common noun for "servant," "slave," or "bondservant." This noun is foundational to understanding the biblical concept of service.
Other closely related terms include:
* H5647 (עָבַד, 'abad): The verb "to serve," "to work," "to worship." This verb is often used to describe human labor, service to other humans, and crucially, service or worship of God.
* H5659 (עֲבוֹדָה, 'avodah): A noun meaning "service," "work," "labor," or "worship," often referring to cultic service in the tabernacle or temple.
* H5660 (עֲבוֹדָה, 'avodah): Another noun, similar to H5659, often denoting "bondage" or "forced labor."
The concept of "servant of the Lord" (עֶבֶד יְהוָה) is a profound theological theme in the Old Testament, applied to figures like Moses, David, and the prophets, culminating in the "Suffering Servant" passages in Isaiah, which are often understood messianically. The name "Ebed" thus connects directly to this pervasive biblical motif of servanthood, whether it be to God, to a human master, or even to sin.
### Theological Significance
While H5651 itself is a proper noun, its etymological meaning—"servant"—carries significant theological weight. The naming of individuals with names like "Ebed" reflects a cultural understanding of identity rooted in status or relationship, often to God. For the Israelites, being a "servant" of Yahweh was the highest calling, implying devotion, obedience, and covenant faithfulness.
The contrasting contexts of the two individuals named Ebed highlight the duality inherent in the concept of "servitude." The Ebed of Judges, through his son Gaal, is associated with rebellion against a human ruler, perhaps implying a rejection of illegitimate authority. The Ebed of Ezra, however, exemplifies faithful participation in God's redemptive work, embodying devoted service to the divine purpose. This illustrates that while the name itself means "servant," the *object* of that service—God, a human master, or even self-interest—determines its moral and spiritual value.
Ultimately, the name "Ebed" underscores the overarching biblical narrative of humanity's relationship with God as one of servanthood. It points to the ideal of a life lived in humble submission and dedicated worship, mirroring the ultimate example of the Suffering Servant, Jesus Christ, who came "not to be served but to serve" [[Mark 10:45]].
### Summary
H5651 (עֶבֶד, ʻEbed) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "servant," derived from H5650. It designates two distinct individuals in the Bible: Ebed, the father of the rebel Gaal in [[Judges 9:26]], and Ebed, a returnee from exile with Ezra in [[Ezra 8:5]]. The name itself, "servant," connects deeply to the pervasive biblical theme of servanthood, a concept central to the relationship between God and humanity. While one Ebed is associated with rebellion against human authority, the other embodies faithful service to God, illustrating the dual nature and profound theological implications of what it means to be a "servant" in the biblical worldview.
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