Shebnah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily in the Book of Isaiah. He is depicted as a high-ranking official in the kingdom of Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah. His account provides insight into the political and spiritual dynamics of the time, as well as the prophetic ministry of Isaiah.

Position and Role:

Shebnah held the position of "steward" or "palace administrator," a role of significant authority and responsibility within the royal court. This position is akin to that of a chief of staff or prime minister, overseeing the affairs of the king's household and, by extension, the kingdom's administrative functions. His influence would have been considerable, making him a key figure in the governance of Judah.

Biblical References:

The primary biblical reference to Shebnah is found in Isaiah 22:15-19. Here, the prophet Isaiah delivers a message from the LORD, rebuking Shebnah for his pride and self-aggrandizement. The passage reads:

"This is what the Lord GOD of Hosts says: 'Go, say to this steward, to Shebnah, who is in charge of the palace: What are you doing here, and who authorized you to carve out a tomb for yourself here, you who carve your tomb on the height and cut your resting place in the rock? Look, O mighty man! The LORD is about to shake you violently. He will take hold of you, roll you up tightly like a ball, and sling you into a wide land. There you will die, and there your glorious chariots will remain—a disgrace to the house of your master. I will depose you from your office, and you will be ousted from your position.'" (Isaiah 22:15-19)

Character and Actions:

Shebnah's actions, as described by Isaiah, reveal a man consumed by pride and self-importance. He is criticized for constructing an elaborate tomb for himself, a symbol of his desire for personal glory and legacy. This act of self-promotion is seen as inappropriate, especially in light of the pressing national concerns facing Judah, including the threat from Assyria.

Prophetic Judgment:

Isaiah's prophecy against Shebnah is a clear indication of divine disapproval. The LORD's message through Isaiah foretells Shebnah's removal from his position and his subsequent disgrace. The imagery of being rolled up like a ball and cast into a foreign land underscores the severity of the judgment. This prophecy highlights the biblical theme that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (cf. James 4:6).

Historical Context:

Shebnah's tenure as palace administrator occurred during a tumultuous period in Judah's history. The Assyrian Empire was expanding its influence, posing a significant threat to the smaller kingdoms of the region. King Hezekiah's reign was marked by efforts to fortify Jerusalem and seek divine guidance through the prophet Isaiah. In this context, Shebnah's focus on personal aggrandizement rather than national security and spiritual fidelity was particularly egregious.

Legacy:

While the Bible does not provide further details about Shebnah's fate beyond Isaiah's prophecy, his account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility and faithfulness to God's purposes. His example is a reminder of the biblical principle that leadership is a stewardship entrusted by God, to be exercised with integrity and a focus on the well-being of others rather than personal gain.7644. Shebna -- secretary and majordomo of Hezekiah
Shebna or Shebnah. 7643, 7644. Shebna or Shebnah. 7645 . secretary and
majordomo of Hezekiah. Transliteration: Shebna or Shebnah ...
/hebrew/7644.htm - 6k

A Prophet who Saved a Great City
... When they arrived at Jerusalem, they called for Hezekiah the ruler of Judah, Eliakim,
the son of Hilkiah, Shebnah, the scribe, and Joah, the son of Asaph, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/a prophet who saved a.htm

Shebnah (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shebnah (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings 18:18 When they
had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim ...
/s/shebnah.htm - 7k

Joah (10 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 When they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the
son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and Joah ...
/j/joah.htm - 11k

Jo'ah (8 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 When they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the
son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and Joah ...
/j/jo'ah.htm - 8k

Rabshakeh (15 Occurrences)
... Having called upon King Hezekiah, his representatives Eliakim, the son of Hilkiah,
Shebnah, the scribe, and Joah, the recorder, appeared. ...
/r/rabshakeh.htm - 14k

Eliakim (14 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 When they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the
son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and Joah ...
/e/eliakim.htm - 15k

Eli'akim (12 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim
the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and ...
/e/eli'akim.htm - 9k

Shebna (9 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 When they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the
son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and Joah ...
/s/shebna.htm - 20k

Shebuel (3 Occurrences)

/s/shebuel.htm - 8k

Hilkijah (30 Occurrences)
... Then came forth to them Eliakim the son of Hilkijah, who was over the household,
and Shebnah the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph, the chronicler. (DBY). ...
/h/hilkijah.htm - 16k

Hilki'ah (30 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:18 And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim
the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the scribe, and ...
/h/hilki'ah.htm - 15k

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