יֹשֵׁב בַּשֶּׁ֫בֶת (yo.shev bash.she.vet)
yo.shev bash.she.vet
Josheb-basshebeth
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Yoshev-bas-shevet identifies a specific warrior in King David’s army, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible at 2 Samuel 23:8. The phrase literally translates to "the one who sits on the seat," likely referring to a position of authority or a designated place in battle formation. This title distinguishes him as one of David’s mighty men, highlighting his role among the king’s elite guards.
Lexical sources note that this individual is also known by the name Jashobeam (Strong's H3434), suggesting that Yoshev-bas-shevet may be a descriptive epithet rather than a personal given name. The root meaning relates to sitting or dwelling, which in this military context implies stability and steadfastness. While some traditions interpret the phrase as "dwelling in rest," the biblical usage emphasizes his active status as a leader among the warriors.
The text identifies him as the son of Zabdiel, linking him to a specific family line within the tribe of Judah. The singular occurrence of this name in Scripture underscores the historical specificity of David’s military records, preserving the memory of those who served faithfully during the early monarchy period.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Yoshev-bas-shevet appears only once in Scripture, marking a specific warrior in King David’s elite force. Literally meaning "the one who sits on the seat," it likely points to a position of authority or a steady place in battle formation. This title distinguishes him as part of the king’s inner circle, highlighting his role among the mighty men who stood firm when others might have faltered.
For your faith, this single mention reminds us that God values steadfastness and loyalty. Whether you are called to lead a team or simply hold your ground in daily life, being "seated" in your duty means finding stability in your role. It is not about grand gestures alone, but about showing up consistently and reliably for those who depend on you.
Even though we do not know every detail of his life, the Bible preserves his name alongside others like Adino. This suggests that God remembers every act of faithfulness, no matter how small it may seem in the moment. You can trust that your steady presence is seen and valued by Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Josheb-1×
- Basshebeth1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יֹשֵׁ֨ב1×
- בַּשֶּׁ֜בֶת1×
Key Verses
-
II Samuel 23:8
These are the names of the mighty men whom David had: Josheb Basshebeth a Tahchemonite, chief of the captains; he was called Adino the Eznite, who killed eight hundred at one time.
This verse identifies him as a chief captain among David's mighty men, establishing his leadership role within the military hierarchy.