Topical Encyclopedia Zibia is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the royal lineage of the Kingdom of Judah. Her name, Zibia, is derived from the Hebrew word "צִבְיָה" (Tzivyah), which means "gazelle" or "doe," symbolizing beauty and grace.Biblical Reference: Zibia is noted in the genealogical records of the kings of Judah. She is identified as the wife of King Ahaziah and the mother of King Joash (also known as Jehoash). Her mention is brief but significant, as she is part of the lineage that continues the Davidic line, which holds great importance in biblical history and prophecy. The primary reference to Zibia is found in 2 Kings 12:1, where it states: "In the seventh year of Jehu, Joash became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah of Beersheba." Historical and Theological Context: Zibia's role, though not extensively detailed in the Scriptures, is crucial in the continuation of the Davidic dynasty. Her son, Joash, became king at a young age after the tumultuous period of Athaliah's usurpation of the throne. Joash's reign is marked by efforts to restore the temple and religious practices in Judah, which aligns with the covenantal promises made to David regarding his descendants. Zibia's mention as being "of Beersheba" provides a geographical context, linking her to the southern region of Judah. Beersheba was a significant location in the patriarchal narratives, often associated with the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac, and later as a center of worship and administration in the southern kingdom. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In the biblical narrative, women like Zibia, though sometimes only briefly mentioned, play vital roles in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Her inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the importance of maternal lineage in the preservation and continuation of the covenant promises. The name Zibia, meaning "gazelle," may also reflect the cultural appreciation for beauty and grace, attributes often celebrated in biblical poetry and wisdom literature. Legacy: Zibia's legacy is primarily carried through her son, Joash, whose reign is a pivotal moment in the history of Judah. Despite the challenges and failures that marked his later years, Joash's early reign, influenced by the priest Jehoiada, was characterized by religious reform and a return to the worship of Yahweh. Zibia's role as his mother places her within the broader narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, ensuring the line of David through which the Messiah would eventually come. Smith's Bible Dictionary Zibia(roe), a Benjamite, apparently the son of Shaharaim by his wife Hodesh. (1 Chronicles 8:9) (B.C. 1440.) Easton's Bible Dictionary Gazelle, a Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:9). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZIBIAzib'-i-a (tsibhya', perhaps "gazelle"): A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:9). Strong's Hebrew 6644. Tsibya -- a Benjamite... Tsibya. 6645 . a Benjamite. Transliteration: Tsibya Phonetic Spelling: (tsib-yaw') Short Definition: Zibia. ... Zibia. For Tsibyah; Tsibja, an Israelite -- Zibia. ... /hebrew/6644.htm - 6k Library Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Thesaurus Zibia (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ZIBIA. zib'-ia (tsibhya', perhaps "gazelle"): A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:9). Multi-Version Concordance Zibia (1 Occurrence). ... /z/zibia.htm - 7k Zib'ia (1 Occurrence) Zib'eon (7 Occurrences) Jobab (9 Occurrences) Malcham (2 Occurrences) Malcam (6 Occurrences) Begetteth (52 Occurrences) Mesha (4 Occurrences) Hodesh (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zibia (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 8:9 Subtopics Related Terms |