Topical Encyclopedia Shebna is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. He serves as a poignant example of misguided ambition and the consequences of prideful behavior. Shebna held a significant position in the royal court of King Hezekiah of Judah, serving as the steward or the "palace administrator," a role of considerable influence and responsibility.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 22:15-19 : The primary account of Shebna is found in Isaiah 22, where the prophet Isaiah delivers a message from the Lord condemning Shebna's actions. The passage reads: "This is what the Lord GOD of Hosts says: 'Go, say to this steward, to Shebna, who is in charge of the palace: What are you doing here, and who authorized you to carve out a tomb for yourself here, hewing your tomb on the height and chiseling 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.'" 2. Isaiah 36:3 : Shebna is also mentioned in Isaiah 36:3, where he is listed among the officials sent by King Hezekiah to meet with the Assyrian envoy. This indicates that despite the prophecy against him, Shebna continued to hold a position of some authority, though his role had been diminished to that of a secretary or scribe. Analysis: Shebna's ambition is characterized by self-aggrandizement and a desire for personal legacy, as evidenced by his construction of an elaborate tomb for himself. This act of carving out a tomb in a prominent place suggests a preoccupation with status and a desire to be remembered with honor, reflecting a heart set on earthly recognition rather than divine approval. The Lord's rebuke through Isaiah highlights the folly of Shebna's ambition. His actions are portrayed as presumptuous, as he sought to elevate himself without regard for God's will or the responsibilities of his office. The prophecy against Shebna serves as a divine judgment on his pride, indicating that his ambition would lead to his downfall and disgrace. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, Shebna's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and self-centered ambition. It underscores the biblical principle that true leadership and honor come from humility and service to God and others, rather than the pursuit of personal glory. The narrative of Shebna reminds believers of the importance of aligning one's ambitions with God's purposes and the futility of seeking status apart from His will. Lessons for Believers: Shebna's example encourages believers to examine their own ambitions and motivations. It calls for a reflection on whether one's pursuits are driven by a desire for personal gain or by a commitment to serve God and His kingdom. The account of Shebna warns against the temptation to prioritize earthly achievements over spiritual faithfulness and highlights the ultimate accountability to God for one's actions and ambitions. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 22:16What have you here? and whom have you here, that you have hewed you out a sepulcher here, as he that hews him out a sepulcher on high, and that engraves an habitation for himself in a rock? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Isaiah Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The Greater Prophets. Resources What does the Bible say about ambition? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about envy? | GotQuestions.org Ambition: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ambition: Connected With: Covetousness Ambition: Connected With: Cruelty Ambition: Connected With: Pride Ambition: Falsely Charged Against Moses Ambition: Korah and his Co-Conspirators Ambition: Leads to Strife and Contention Ambition: Parable of the Thistle, Illustrating Ambition: The Builders of Babel Ambition: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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