Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 8 - Verse 17

8:17
And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe;

Meaning

During the time of King David, the priesthood was a significant role in the religious and social fabric of Israel. In this verse, we are introduced to three key figures from the priesthood: Zadok, Ahimelech, and Seraiah. Zadok and Ahimelech were both priests, serving as intermediaries between the people and God, offering sacrifices and conducting ceremonies at the Tabernacle. Their lineage can be traced back to Aaron, the brother of Moses, who was appointed as the first high priest by God. Seraiah, on the other hand, was a scribe, responsible for maintaining written records such as genealogies, historical events, and legal documents. These three men played vital roles in the religious and administrative affairs of ancient Israel, ensuring the continuity of worship and the preservation of religious traditions. Their names are mentioned in the Bible as a testament to their importance and contribution to the Israelite community during the reign of King David.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see a mention of key figures who held important roles in the religious administration during the time of King David. Zadok and Ahimelech served as priests, responsible for carrying out the religious rituals and offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. The mention of their lineage, with Zadok being the son of Ahitub and Ahimelech being the son of Abiathar, highlights the significance of the priestly lineage in the religious hierarchy. Seraiah, on the other hand, was the scribe, tasked with maintaining records and documents related to the religious practices and teachings. These individuals played crucial roles in ensuring the smooth functioning of the religious institutions and upholding the sacred traditions of the Israelites. Their names and roles serve as a reminder of the importance of faith and devotion in the lives of the people during this historical period.

American Standard Version

and Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were priests; and Seraiah was scribe;
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