Shebna
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Shebna in the Bible?
Shebna held the high-ranking position of 'over the house' (al ha-bayit), effectively serving as the royal steward or prime minister in the administration of King Hezekiah, and is also identified as a scribe in biblical narratives concerning the Assyrian crisis.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Shebna's role clarifies the administrative structure of the Judean monarchy and highlights the political tensions within King Hezekiah's court during the Assyrian invasion, as his eventual replacement by Eliakim demonstrates the consequences of perceived diplomatic failures or lack of trust in divine reliance.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Shebna in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Shebna clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.