The role of the cupbearer in biblical times was one of significant responsibility and trust. A cupbearer was an officer of high rank in royal courts, whose duty was to serve drinks at the royal table. Due to the constant threat of plots and poisonings, the cupbearer had to be a person of unquestionable loyalty and integrity. This position often granted the cupbearer close access to the king, making him a person of influence and sometimes a confidant.

Nehemiah 1:11 · 2:1 :
Nehemiah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, served as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. His position allowed him to request permission from the king to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. The scripture states, "I was cupbearer to the king" (Nehemiah 1:11), highlighting the trust and proximity to the king that Nehemiah enjoyed. This role was instrumental in Nehemiah's ability to influence the king and secure the resources needed for his mission.

Genesis 40:1-23 :
The account of Joseph in Egypt provides another example of a cupbearer, referred to as the chief cupbearer or butler. While imprisoned, Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker. The cupbearer's dream, which Joseph interpreted, foretold his restoration to his position. "Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your position, and you will put Pharaoh’s cup in his hand, just as you used to do when you were his cupbearer" (Genesis 40:13). This narrative underscores the cupbearer's role in the royal court and the potential for divine intervention in their lives.

1 Kings 10:5 :
The Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon provides insight into the grandeur and organization of Solomon's court, including the role of the cupbearers. The scripture notes, "the food of his table, the seating of his servants, the service and attire of his waiters, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he offered at the house of the LORD, it took her breath away" (1 Kings 10:5). This passage illustrates the cupbearer's part in the opulence and order of the king's household, contributing to the overall impression of Solomon's wisdom and wealth.

2 Chronicles 9:4 :
This parallel account of the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon reiterates the importance of the cupbearers in the royal court. The text describes the queen's amazement at "the seating of his servants, the service and attire of his waiters, and his cupbearers" (2 Chronicles 9:4). The mention of cupbearers in this context highlights their role in the ceremonial and daily functions of the king's court.

The position of the cupbearer, as seen in these scriptures, was one of both service and influence. Entrusted with the king's safety, the cupbearer held a unique place in the royal hierarchy, often serving as a bridge between the king and his subjects.Genesis 40:1,11
And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of Egypt and his baker had offended their lord the king of Egypt.
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1 Kings 10:5
And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up to the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.
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2 Chronicles 9:4
And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.
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Nehemiah 1:11
O LORD, I beseech you, let now your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants, who desire to fear your name: and prosper, I pray you, your servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man. For I was the king's cupbearer.
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Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
... higher authority we find many illustrations in the Scriptures. ... of the world looks
to the general welfare of ... The water fills the pitcher; so does the cupbearer. ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol ii/fourth sunday after epiphany.htm

The Later Hebrew Histories.
... in the middle group of the Hebrew Scriptures, have been ... He was the cupbearer of
Artaxerxes the king; he had ... out, in terms very large and general, the nature of ...
/.../gladden/who wrote the bible/chapter vi the later hebrew.htm

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Topical: Definitions ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

Cupbearer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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