Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "cabinet" does not appear explicitly in the text. However, the concept of a cabinet, understood as a group of advisors or officials serving a leader, can be inferred from various passages that describe the governance structures and advisory roles in ancient Israel and surrounding nations.Biblical Context and Governance In ancient Israel, the governance system was theocratic, with God as the ultimate ruler. However, human leaders such as kings, judges, and prophets played significant roles in administering the nation. These leaders often surrounded themselves with advisors and officials who helped in decision-making and governance, akin to a modern-day cabinet. King Solomon's Officials One of the clearest examples of a structured advisory group is found during the reign of King Solomon. In 1 Kings 4:1-7 , we see a detailed list of Solomon's officials, who were responsible for various aspects of the kingdom's administration: > "So King Solomon ruled over all Israel. And these were his chief officials: Azariah son of Zadok was the priest; Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was in charge of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the deputies; Zabud son of Nathan was a priest and adviser to the king; Ahishar was in charge of the palace; and Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor." This passage illustrates a well-organized system where each official had specific duties, contributing to the effective governance of the kingdom. Solomon's cabinet included religious leaders, military commanders, and administrative officers, reflecting a comprehensive approach to leadership. Role of Counselors The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of wise counsel in leadership. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance." This highlights the value placed on having a group of advisors to provide wisdom and guidance, akin to a cabinet's role in modern governance. Historical and Cultural Insights In the broader ancient Near Eastern context, it was common for kings and rulers to have a group of trusted advisors. These individuals often held significant influence and were involved in making critical decisions. The Bible reflects this cultural practice, as seen in the narratives of various kings who consulted their advisors on matters of state, warfare, and religious practice. New Testament Considerations While the New Testament does not describe a formal cabinet structure, the concept of leadership and advisory roles is evident in the early church. The apostles and elders in Jerusalem, for example, functioned as a governing body to make decisions on doctrinal and practical issues, as seen in Acts 15:6 : "So the apostles and elders met to look into this matter." Conclusion The concept of a cabinet, while not explicitly named in the Bible, is reflected in the advisory structures surrounding leaders in both the Old and New Testaments. These groups played crucial roles in governance, decision-making, and maintaining the spiritual and social order of the community. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The advisory council of the chief executive officer of a nation; as, a President's cabinet; a cabinet council.2. (n.) A hut; a cottage; a small house. 3. (n.) A small room, or retired apartment; a closet. 4. (n.) A private room in which consultations are held. 5. (n.) A set of drawers or a cupboard intended to contain articles of value. Hence: 6. (n.) A decorative piece of furniture, whether open like an etagere or closed with doors. See Etagere. 7. (n.) Any building or room set apart for the safe keeping and exhibition of works of art, etc.; also, the collection itself. 8. (a.) Suitable for a cabinet; small. Library Conversion. Here, it May be Said, My Book Ends Just Where it Ought to Begin. . ... How a Soul in Charity Makes Progress in It. The Freedom of the City. On Mr. Mccabe and a Divine Frivolity Is The Young Man Absalom Safe? History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 3 To the Reader The Potency of Prayer Hath Subdued the Strength of Fire... Gambling, Card-Playing Thesaurus Cabinet (1 Occurrence)... 1. (n.) The advisory council of the chief executive officer of a nation; as, a President's cabinet; a cabinet council. ... 8. (a.) Suitable for a cabinet; small. ... /c/cabinet.htm - 7k Ebony (2 Occurrences) Credence (20 Occurrences) Cabin Cabins (1 Occurrence) Administration (12 Occurrences) Secretary (34 Occurrences) Polygamy Resources Islamic antichrist? Will the antichrist be a Muslim? | GotQuestions.orgCabinet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cabinet (1 Occurrence)Judges 3:24 Subtopics Related Terms |
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