Topical Encyclopedia Zadok, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, served as a high priest during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. His lineage traces back to Aaron, the brother of Moses, through Eleazar, making him a descendant of the Levitical priesthood. Zadok's role and actions are pivotal in the religious and political landscape of ancient Israel.Anointing of Solomon Zadok first emerges in the biblical narrative during the tumultuous period of King David's reign. As David's life drew to a close, a succession crisis arose. Adonijah, one of David's sons, attempted to usurp the throne. However, David had promised the kingship to Solomon, his son with Bathsheba. Zadok, alongside the prophet Nathan and Benaiah son of Jehoiada, remained loyal to David and supported Solomon's claim. In 1 Kings 1:39 , it is recorded, "Zadok the priest took the horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. Then they blew the trumpet, and all the people proclaimed, 'Long live King Solomon!'" Service under King David Zadok's loyalty to David is further evidenced during Absalom's rebellion. When Absalom, another of David's sons, sought to overthrow his father, Zadok remained faithful to David. In 2 Samuel 15:24-29 , Zadok and the Levites brought the Ark of the Covenant to David as he fled Jerusalem. However, David instructed Zadok to return the Ark to the city, trusting in God's providence. Zadok's obedience and faithfulness were instrumental in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation during this crisis. Role in the Temple Under King Solomon, Zadok's priestly duties expanded with the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. Zadok's descendants, known as the "sons of Zadok," were granted the privilege of serving in the Temple due to their ancestor's unwavering loyalty and righteousness. Ezekiel 44:15 highlights this enduring legacy: "But the Levitical priests, the sons of Zadok, who kept charge of My sanctuary when the Israelites went astray from Me, will approach Me to minister before Me. They will stand before Me to offer Me fat and blood, declares the Lord GOD." Significance in Biblical History Zadok's life and service exemplify the ideals of faithfulness, loyalty, and righteousness. His unwavering support for God's chosen leaders and his dedication to the priestly duties set a standard for the Levitical priesthood. The "sons of Zadok" continued to hold a special place in the religious life of Israel, serving as a testament to Zadok's enduring legacy. His account is a reminder of the importance of steadfastness in faith and the impact of righteous leadership in fulfilling God's purposes. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 3:29After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his house. After him repaired also Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the east gate. Nave's Topical Index Library How Solomon Became the Ruler of Israel David Appointing Solomon The Story of Solomon and his Temple The History of David How Solomon, when He had Received the Kingdom Took Off His That David Made Great Preparations for the House of God; and That ... Of those Things which a Man of God Spake by the Spirit to Eli the ... How, when Absalom was Beaten, He was Caught in a Tree by his Hair ... Relation of the Pharisees to the Sadducees and Essenes, and to the ... The Historical Situation Resources Questions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.orgOld Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Who was Absalom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Zadok: A Treasurer of the Temple Zadok: Performs the Function of a High Priest After Abiathar Was Deposed by Solomon Zadok: Removes the Ark of the Covenant from Jerusalem at the Time of Absalom's Usurpation Zadok: Stands Aloof from Adonijah at the Time of his Attempted Usurpation Zadok: The High Priest During the Time of David's Reign Related Terms |