Zebi'dah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Judean monarchy. She is noted for her role as the mother of King Jehoiakim, one of the last kings of Judah before the Babylonian exile.

Biblical References:

Zebi'dah is mentioned in 2 Kings 23:36: "Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother’s name was Zebidah daughter of Pedaiah; she was from Rumah."

Historical Context:

Zebi'dah lived during a tumultuous period in the history of Judah, marked by political instability and the looming threat of Babylonian conquest. Her son, Jehoiakim, ascended to the throne following the brief reign of his brother Jehoahaz, who was deposed by Pharaoh Necho II of Egypt. Jehoiakim's reign was characterized by his subservience to Egypt and later Babylon, as well as his failure to adhere to the covenantal laws of Yahweh, which ultimately led to divine judgment upon Judah.

Family Background:

Zebi'dah was the daughter of Pedaiah from Rumah. The identification of Rumah is uncertain, but it is often thought to be a location in the region of Judah or possibly in the northern kingdom of Israel. Her marriage to Josiah, one of the most righteous kings of Judah, positioned her within the Davidic line, a lineage that held significant theological importance in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Theological Significance:

While Zebi'dah herself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, her mention highlights the importance of maternal lineage in the royal succession of Judah. Her son, Jehoiakim, is often remembered for his disobedience to God, contrasting with the piety of his father, Josiah. This juxtaposition serves as a narrative device to underscore the consequences of forsaking the covenant with God, a recurring theme in the Deuteronomistic history.

Cultural and Religious Influence:

In the broader cultural and religious context, Zebi'dah's role as a queen mother would have carried significant influence within the royal court. The position of queen mother was one of honor and authority, often involved in political and dynastic affairs. Although the biblical text does not provide extensive details about her life or actions, her inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the importance of women in the transmission of royal and covenantal heritage.

Zebi'dah's legacy, through her son Jehoiakim, is a reminder of the complex interplay between divine providence and human agency in the biblical narrative, illustrating the impact of leadership on the spiritual and political fate of a nation.Zebi'dah (1 Occurrence)

2 Kings 23:36
Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign; and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Zebudah the daughter of Pedaiah of Rumah.
(See RSV)

Zebi'dah (1 Occurrence)
Zebi'dah. Zebidah, Zebi'dah. Zebina . Multi-Version Concordance
Zebi'dah (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 23:36 Jehoiakim was twenty and ...
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Zebidah (1 Occurrence)

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Zebina (1 Occurrence)

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