Ebed

Ebed (Hebrew: עֶבֶד) is a name derived from a common Semitic root meaning servant or slave. This etymology highlights themes of devotion, humility, and service, which are central to many biblical narratives. The linguistic roots of the name reflect a cultural and spiritual emphasis on servitude, not merely in a physical sense but often as an act of dedication to God or higher purposes. Names like Ebed were commonly chosen in ancient Semitic societies to express identity and spiritual alignment, making this name both culturally and theologically rich.

The name Ebed carries notable spiritual significance, as reflected in its Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100, which measures its association with God in scripture. While not directly linked to divine intervention, the name's meaning as servant implies a posture of humility and readiness to serve God's will. Its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 suggests strong thematic resonance with the values and teachings of Jesus, who emphasized servitude and selflessness. Individuals named Ebed in the Bible, such as the father of Gaal and the son of Jonathan, embody roles of leadership and familial legacy, further underscoring the name's importance in biblical history.

In the Bible, Ebed is mentioned in two distinct contexts. First, Ebed is identified as the father of Gaal in the Book of Judges (Judg. 9:26–30). Gaal plays a pivotal role in leading a rebellion against Abimelech, highlighting Ebed's legacy through his son’s significant, albeit controversial, actions. Second, in the Book of Ezra (Ezra 8:6), Ebed is noted as the son of Jonathan and the head of the descendants of Adin who returned from Babylon during Ezra’s expedition. This mention underscores Ebed’s connection to the restoration and rebuilding of Jerusalem, a critical moment in Israel’s history. These appearances highlight the name’s association with leadership, familial ties, and historical transitions in the biblical narrative.