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זְבֻל (ze.vul)

ze.vul

Zebul

H2083 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 5 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
5 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun zebul, meaning "exalted" or "high place," appears five times in the Old Testament, primarily within the narrative of Judges 9. It serves as a title for an official in the court of Abimelech, specifically identifying him as the chief steward or overseer of Shechem during the city’s turbulent power struggle.

This term highlights the administrative structure of ancient Canaanite cities rather than describing a divine sanctuary, despite sharing a root with words for high places. The sources identify Zebul as a key supporter of Abimelech, illustrating how local elites managed civic affairs and loyalty during this period of early Israelite history.

Translators typically render zebul as "governor" or "steward," emphasizing his role in managing the city’s resources and people. His mention underscores the political complexity of Shechem, where internal factions vied for control before the establishment of the monarchy.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word zebul appears in Judges as a title for an official who managed the affairs of a city. It points to a person responsible for oversight and administration within a complex social structure. In the story of Abimelech, Zebul serves as a key figure who helps maintain order and loyalty among the people of Shechem.

For modern readers, this word reminds us that leadership involves practical responsibilities. Managing resources, protecting communities, and navigating political tensions are tasks that require wisdom and courage. The biblical narrative shows how individuals in positions of authority can influence the direction of their society during times of uncertainty.

We see here that faithful service often happens behind the scenes. Whether in ancient cities or today’s communities, those who steward resources and support leaders play a vital role in maintaining stability. This perspective encourages us to value the quiet work of administration and care for others as part of our shared human experience.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Zebul5×
  • and/ [is] Zebul?1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • זְבֻ֔ל2×
  • זְבֻל֙1×
  • זְבֻ֛ל1×
  • זְבֻ֗ל1×
  • וּ/זְבֻ֣ל1×

Key Verses

  • Judges 9:28
    Gaal the son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Isn’t he the son of Jerubbaal? Isn’t Zebul his officer? Serve the men of Hamor the father of Shechem, but why should we serve him?

    This verse establishes Zebul's identity as Abimelech's officer, highlighting the political tension between loyalty to the new ruler and allegiance to Shechem's founding family.

  • Judges 9:30
    When Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger burned.

    Here Zebul reacts with anger to Gaal's challenge, showing how his position required him to protect the established authority against public dissent.

  • Judges 9:36
    When Gaal saw the people, he said to Zebul, “Behold, people are coming down from the tops of the mountains.” Zebul said to him, “You see the shadows of the mountains as if they were men.”

    Zebul's response to Gaal about seeing shadows reveals his role in managing perception and maintaining morale during a moment of crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word zebul mean?

Zebul refers to an official or steward who oversaw city affairs. In the Old Testament, it specifically denotes a high-ranking administrator serving under a king or ruler. The term emphasizes responsibility for management and order within a community.

Where does zebul appear in the Bible?

The word appears five times in Judges chapter 9, always in connection with Abimelech's court in Shechem. It identifies Zebul as the chief officer who helped maintain Abimelech's control during a period of civil unrest.

Is zebul related to religious high places?

Although it shares a root with words for elevated places, in this context it refers to human authority rather than worship sites. The biblical usage focuses on civic administration and political loyalty, not religious sanctuary.

Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)

Judges 5 verses
Judges 9:28

Gaal the son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Isn’t he the son of…

Judges 9:30

When Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger burned.

Judges 9:36

When Gaal saw the people, he said to Zebul, “Behold, people are coming down from the tops of the mountains.” Zebul said…

Judges 9:38

Then Zebul said to him, “Now where is your mouth, that you said, ‘Who is Abimelech, that we should serve him?’ Isn’t…

Judges 9:41

Abimelech lived at Arumah; and Zebul drove out Gaal and his brothers, that they should not dwell in Shechem.