Topical Encyclopedia Sadduk, also known as Zadok, is a significant figure in the history of Israel, particularly during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. He is primarily recognized as a high priest and a loyal supporter of King David. Sadduk's lineage and role in the priesthood are crucial to understanding the religious and political landscape of ancient Israel.Lineage and Background Sadduk was a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, through Eleazar, Aaron's son. This lineage established his legitimate claim to the priesthood, as the priestly line was traditionally traced through Aaron's descendants. Sadduk's ancestry is detailed in the genealogies found in the Old Testament, which emphasize his rightful place within the Levitical priesthood. Role During King David's Reign Sadduk first appears in the biblical narrative during the reign of King David. He is introduced as a priest alongside Abiathar, another prominent priest of the time. Sadduk's loyalty to David is evident during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. When Absalom attempted to usurp the throne, Sadduk, along with Abiathar, remained faithful to David. They played a crucial role in relaying information to David, helping him strategize and ultimately regain control of his kingdom. In 2 Samuel 15:24-29, Sadduk is depicted carrying the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem after David's successful return. High Priesthood Under Solomon Sadduk's prominence continued into the reign of Solomon, David's son and successor. When Solomon ascended to the throne, he appointed Sadduk as the sole high priest, effectively replacing Abiathar. This appointment is significant as it fulfilled the prophecy against the house of Eli, to which Abiathar belonged. In 1 Kings 2:35, it is recorded: "The king also put Benaiah son of Jehoiada over the army in Joab’s place, and he put Zadok the priest in Abiathar’s place." Sadduk's high priesthood under Solomon marked a period of religious consolidation and stability. He was instrumental in the dedication of the First Temple, a pivotal event in Israel's religious history. His role in the temple's dedication is a testament to his enduring influence and the trust placed in him by Solomon. Legacy and Significance Sadduk's legacy extends beyond his lifetime, as his descendants, known as the Zadokites, continued to serve in the priesthood. The Zadokite priesthood is often associated with a return to religious purity and adherence to the Mosaic Law. This lineage is highlighted in the prophetic visions of Ezekiel, where the sons of Zadok are depicted as faithful priests who minister before the Lord (Ezekiel 44:15). In the broader biblical narrative, Sadduk represents the ideal of priestly fidelity and service to God and king. His unwavering loyalty to David and Solomon, coupled with his commitment to the proper worship of Yahweh, underscores the importance of the priesthood in maintaining the spiritual and moral order of Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SADDUKsad'-uk (Codex Alexandrinus (Fritzsche), Saddoukos; Codex Vaticanus Saddouloukos; the King James Version Sadduc): The high priest, an ancestor of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2) = "Zadok" in Ezra 7:2 = "Sadoc" in 2 Esdras 1:1. Library Concerning John of Gichala. Josephus Uses Stratagems against the ... In the House of his Heavenly, and in the Home of his Earthly ... How the War of the Jews with the Romans Began, and Concerning ... Index i. Of Subjects Thesaurus Sadduk... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SADDUK. sad'-uk (Codex Alexandrinus (Fritzsche), Saddoukos; Codex Vaticanus Saddouloukos; the King ... /s/sadduk.htm - 6k Sad'ducees (13 Occurrences) Sadoc (1 Occurrence) Sad-faced (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |