Ziba
Illustration from the Morgan Bible of David fleeing Jerusalem. Ziba is on the right, bringing David provisions.
Meaning and Origin
Ziba, a name stemming from the Hebrew root ציבא (tsibah), translates to “statue” or “pillar.” The name carries connotations of strength, permanence, and steadfastness, reflecting a symbolic role in biblical narratives. Linguistically, it is derived from Semitic traditions, where names often held spiritual or descriptive significance. Historically, names like Ziba were associated with individuals who played pivotal roles in the social or spiritual frameworks of their time, often serving as markers of identity and purpose within ancient Israelite culture.
Illustration from the Morgan Bible of David fleeing Jerusalem. Ziba is on the right, bringing David provisions.
Name Ziba in languages of the Bible
Hover or touch to magnify
Popularity Analysis
The name Ziba has transcended its biblical origins to achieve global recognition, appearing in 101 countries. It is particularly popular in nations such as Kuwait, Qatar, and Guinea, reflecting its enduring appeal across diverse cultures and linguistic traditions. While its usage remains closely tied to religious contexts, Ziba has also found resonance as a given name in modern times, symbolizing strength and heritage. The name’s simplicity and historical depth make it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a connection to biblical legacy and timeless values. Its presence in various cultural spheres underscores the universal relevance of biblical names in shaping identity and spiritual consciousness today.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Kuwait | Siva | 117 |
| Qatar | Siva | 180 |
| Guinea | Siba | 243 |
| Maldives | Siva | 273 |
| Singapore | Siva | 285 |
| Oman | Siva | 309 |
| Bahrain | Siva | 331 |
| United Arab Emirates | Siva | 344 |
| Vanuatu | Siba | 408 |
| Sri Lanka | Siva | 484 |
| India | Siva | 587 |
| Seychelles | Siva | 722 |
| Malaysia | Siva | 793 |
| Azerbaijan | Ziba | 948 |
| Syrian Arab Republic | Siba | 1041 |
Showing top 15 of 101 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
The biblical figure Ziba is intricately tied to themes of loyalty, servitude, and moral ambiguity. As a servant in the house of Saul, Ziba’s actions reveal a complex relationship with divine providence and human ambition. His Divine Proximity Index of 80.8/100 indicates a strong, though indirect, association with God’s overarching narrative in scripture. Meanwhile, his Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underscores how his actions contributed to the lineage and legacy of David, a significant precursor to Jesus in Christian theology. Culturally, Ziba’s story invites reflection on the dynamics of power, trust, and divine justice, making his character a subject of both admiration and caution within Christian teachings.
Biblical Context
Ziba is mentioned prominently in the books of 2 Samuel, where his interactions with King David shape critical moments in the narrative. Initially, Ziba introduces Mephibosheth, the crippled son of Jonathan, to David, leading to a display of David’s kindness and covenantal faithfulness (2 Samuel 9:9–12). Later, during Absalom’s rebellion, Ziba brings provisions to David and claims Mephibosheth has betrayed him (2 Samuel 16). This accusation leads David to award Saul’s property to Ziba. However, upon David’s return to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth denies Ziba’s allegations, and David ultimately divides the land between them (2 Samuel 19). These events highlight Ziba’s role as a complex figure whose actions influenced both royal and divine decisions, serving as a lens for understanding themes of loyalty, deceit, and justice in the Bible.
Divine Proximity Metrics
God Proximity
SNA: 1.09 | Percentile: 80.8
Biblical References
- 2 Samuel 19:17
- 2 Samuel 9:9
- 2 Samuel 9:4
- 2 Samuel 9:2
- 2 Samuel 19:29