Ebed-melech, whose name means "servant of the king," is a notable figure in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah. He is identified as a Cushite, indicating his African descent, and serves as an official in the court of King Zedekiah of Judah during the final days of Jerusalem before the Babylonian exile.

Biblical Account:

Ebed-melech's account is primarily found in Jeremiah 38:7-13 and 39:15-18. He is introduced during a critical moment in the life of the prophet Jeremiah. At this time, Jeremiah had been cast into a cistern by the officials of King Zedekiah, who were angered by his prophecies of Jerusalem's impending fall to the Babylonians. The cistern, which had no water but only mud, was a place where Jeremiah was left to die.

Upon hearing of Jeremiah's plight, Ebed-melech approached King Zedekiah to plead for the prophet's life. Demonstrating courage and compassion, Ebed-melech said to the king, "My lord the king, these men have acted wickedly in all they have done to Jeremiah the prophet. They have thrown him into a cistern, where he will starve to death when there is no more bread in the city" (Jeremiah 38:9).

Moved by Ebed-melech's plea, King Zedekiah commanded him to take thirty men and lift Jeremiah out of the cistern before he died. Ebed-melech acted swiftly and resourcefully, using old rags and worn-out clothes to cushion the ropes used to pull Jeremiah out, ensuring the prophet's safety and comfort (Jeremiah 38:11-13).

Divine Favor:

Ebed-melech's actions did not go unnoticed by God. In Jeremiah 39:15-18, the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah while he was still confined in the courtyard of the guard. The LORD instructed Jeremiah to deliver a message to Ebed-melech, assuring him of divine protection. The LORD declared, "I will surely rescue you, because you have trusted in Me, declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 39:18). This promise of deliverance was significant, as it came during a time of great turmoil and destruction.

Character and Legacy:

Ebed-melech is remembered for his bravery, integrity, and faith. Despite being a foreigner and a servant, he demonstrated a profound sense of justice and compassion, risking his own position and safety to save Jeremiah. His trust in God and his willingness to act righteously in a time of moral decay highlight the universal nature of God's concern for justice and righteousness.

Ebed-melech's account serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have when they choose to stand for truth and justice, even in the face of adversity. His faith and actions exemplify the biblical principle that God honors those who trust in Him and act according to His will, regardless of their social or ethnic background.