Topical Bible: King: Chief officers of The Recorder

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In the biblical context, the role of the "Recorder" is a significant position within the administrative hierarchy of the Israelite monarchy. The Recorder, also referred to as the "Chronicler" or "Remembrancer," was a high-ranking official in the royal court, responsible for maintaining records, chronicling events, and possibly advising the king on matters of state. This position is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament, highlighting its importance in the governance and historical documentation of the kingdom.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 8:16-17 : "Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests; Seraiah was the scribe." This passage lists the key officials in King David's administration, with Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud serving as the recorder. His role would have been crucial in documenting the king's military campaigns, legal decisions, and other significant events.

2. 1 Kings 4:3 : "Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder." Under King Solomon, Jehoshaphat continued to serve as the recorder, indicating the continuity and stability of this office across different reigns. The recorder's duties likely included keeping detailed records of Solomon's extensive building projects, trade agreements, and diplomatic relations.

3. 2 Kings 18:18 : "When they called for the king, Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder went out to them." During the reign of King Hezekiah, Joah son of Asaph held the position of recorder. This passage illustrates the recorder's involvement in significant political and military negotiations, as they were part of the delegation sent to meet the Assyrian envoys.

Role and Responsibilities:

The Recorder's primary responsibility was to maintain accurate and comprehensive records of the king's reign. This included documenting royal decrees, military campaigns, legal judgments, and other significant events. The position required a person of integrity and trustworthiness, as the recorder's records would serve as the official historical account of the kingdom's affairs.

In addition to record-keeping, the recorder may have served as an advisor to the king, providing insights based on historical precedents and documented experiences. The role required a deep understanding of the kingdom's history, laws, and administrative procedures.

Significance in the Monarchy:

The position of the recorder was vital for the effective administration of the Israelite monarchy. By maintaining detailed records, the recorder ensured continuity and consistency in governance, allowing successive kings to make informed decisions based on past experiences. The recorder's work also contributed to the preservation of Israel's history, providing future generations with an account of God's dealings with His people and the unfolding of His divine plan through the monarchy.

The role of the recorder, as seen in the biblical narrative, underscores the importance of historical documentation and the value of wisdom and counsel in leadership. Through the faithful service of individuals like Jehoshaphat and Joah, the recorders played a crucial part in the unfolding account of Israel and its kings.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 8:16
And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder;
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2 Samuel 20:24
And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder:
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1 Kings 4:3
Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder.
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Library

The Acts of the Apostles.
... We mention the chief points, some of which are ... substantial agreement with Luke that
the king died of a ... used for public assemblies, the distinct officers of the ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 85 the acts of.htm

The Holy War,
... to alienate Mansoul from Shaddai, her king"he commands ... when it needed, might choose
them officers, governors, and ... And these are the names of the chief of them ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

A Call to Prayer and Testimony
... You must come to the great King and say, "Lord ... Is this state of mind prevailing among
the officers of the ... Our chief business should be to cry, "Behold the Lamb ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/a call to prayer and.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... 60,000 in the time of that king; all others ... The reigning prince was hereditary
commander-in-chief, but the ... More than one of these officers had already turned ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

C. The Third Period. Chs. 6:12 to 8:56
... but he now determined to appoint officers who would ... The chief place in the first
group is always ... of the household and personal estates of King Herod, evidently ...
/.../erdman/the gospel of luke an exposition/c the third period chs.htm