Ziba
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ziba in the Bible?
Ziba was a servant of Saul's household who provided provisions and transport to David during his flight from Absalom and was subsequently appointed to manage the estate of Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Ziba's role clarifies the political dynamics of David's reign, specifically how royal patronage was used to secure loyalty from remnants of the previous royal house while navigating internal disputes over inheritance and service.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Ziba reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ziba in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ziba 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.
How to Cite This Entry
"Ziba." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ziba/