Zeeb was one of the two Midianite princes mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in the narrative concerning Gideon's victory over the Midianites. His name, which means "wolf" in Hebrew, is indicative of the fierce and predatory nature often associated with the Midianite oppressors of Israel during this period.

Biblical Account

The account of Zeeb is primarily found in Judges 7 and 8. During the time of the Judges, the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience to God. The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade Israel, destroying crops and livestock, leaving the Israelites impoverished and in great distress.

In response to the cries of the Israelites, God raised up Gideon to deliver His people. Gideon, with a divinely reduced army of 300 men, launched a surprise attack on the Midianite camp. The Lord caused confusion among the Midianites, leading them to turn their swords against each other. In the ensuing chaos, the Midianite forces were routed.

Zeeb, along with his fellow prince Oreb, attempted to flee but were pursued by the men of Ephraim, whom Gideon had called to cut off the Midianites' escape at the Jordan River. The Ephraimites captured and killed Oreb and Zeeb. Judges 7:25 states, "They captured Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian. They killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued the Midianites and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon, who was by the Jordan."

Historical and Theological Significance

The defeat of Zeeb and Oreb marked a significant turning point in the struggle against Midianite oppression. Their deaths symbolized the breaking of Midianite power and the deliverance of Israel from their enemies. The locations of their deaths, the rock of Oreb and the winepress of Zeeb, became memorials of God's deliverance through Gideon.

From a theological perspective, the account of Zeeb underscores the theme of divine intervention and deliverance in the Book of Judges. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remained faithful to His covenant, raising up leaders to rescue His people. The narrative also highlights the importance of obedience and faith in God's power, as demonstrated by Gideon's reliance on God's guidance rather than military might.

Cultural Context

The Midianites were a nomadic people, descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). They were known for their camels and trade routes, often interacting with other ancient Near Eastern cultures. During the time of the Judges, the Midianites were a significant threat to Israel, as they would invade during harvest time, devastating the land and resources.

The capture and execution of Zeeb and Oreb by the Ephraimites reflect the tribal dynamics within Israel. The tribe of Ephraim, feeling slighted for not being initially called to battle, played a crucial role in the final defeat of the Midianites, showcasing the unity and cooperation needed among the tribes to achieve victory.

Legacy

The account of Zeeb serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the ultimate futility of opposing His will. It also illustrates the consequences of living in opposition to God's people and the justice that follows. The narrative of Zeeb, Oreb, and the Midianite defeat is a testament to God's deliverance and the restoration of peace and order in Israel during the tumultuous period of the Judges.Judges 7:25
And they took two princes of the Midianites, Oreb and Zeeb; and they slew Oreb on the rock Oreb, and Zeeb they slew at the wine press of Zeeb, and pursued Midian, and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon on the other side Jordan.
Nave's Topical Index

Judges 8:3
God has delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.
Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 83:11
Make their nobles like Oreb, and like Zeeb: yes, all their princes as Zebah, and as Zalmunna:
Nave's Topical Index

2062. Zeeb -- "wolf," a leader in Midian
... Word Origin from the same as zeeb Definition "wolf," a leader in Midian NASB Word
Usage Zeeb (6). Zeeb. The same as z'eb; Zeeb, a Midianitish prince -- Zeeb. ...
/hebrew/2062.htm - 6kWhat is the significance of Midian in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus