Shebna(shebnah)
“Vigor”
Summary
A high official under King Hezekiah, initially prefect of the palace but later demoted to scribe after being denounced by Isaiah for pride and self-aggrandizement.
☩His Offices
Shebna held the high office of prefect (treasurer or steward) of Hezekiah's palace, one of the most powerful positions in the kingdom. Later he appears in the subordinate role of scribe or secretary, suggesting his demotion occurred as Isaiah prophesied. In this capacity he was sent with Eliakim to hear Rabshakeh's threats during the Assyrian siege.
☩Isaiah's Denunciation
Isaiah pronounced judgment on Shebna for his pride, luxury, and oppression. He was building himself an elaborate tomb in the rock as if establishing his legacy. The prophet declared he would be 'tossed like a ball' into a far country—contrasting his self-serving leadership with Eliakim who would be 'a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.' Whether he repented and was merely demoted, or faced final judgment later, is uncertain.
References
- 1.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Shebna," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 2.George Morrish, "Shebna," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 3.George Morrish, "Shebna," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 4.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Shebna," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).
- 5.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Shebna," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).
- 6.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Shebna," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).