Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the role of the "recorder" is a significant yet often overlooked office within the administrative structure of the ancient Israelite monarchy. The recorder, sometimes referred to as a chronicler or remembrancer, was a high-ranking official in the royal court, responsible for maintaining records and overseeing various administrative duties. This position is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament, highlighting its importance in the governance of the kingdom.
Biblical References and DutiesThe office of the recorder is first mentioned during the reign of King David. In
2 Samuel 8:16-17 , it is noted: "Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests." Here, Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud is identified as the recorder, indicating his role as a key official in David's administration. The recorder's duties likely included keeping detailed records of the king's decisions, military campaigns, and other significant events, ensuring that the king's decrees and actions were documented for posterity and governance.
The position of the recorder continued to hold prominence during the reign of Solomon, David's son and successor. In
1 Kings 4:3 , it is recorded: "Elihoreph and Ahijah, sons of Shisha, were secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder." This continuity suggests that the role was institutionalized within the royal court, serving as a vital link in the administration's communication and record-keeping processes.
Historical and Cultural ContextThe role of the recorder in ancient Israel can be compared to similar positions in other Near Eastern cultures, where scribes and chroniclers played crucial roles in maintaining the bureaucratic functions of the state. The recorder would have been responsible for compiling official documents, such as royal edicts, treaties, and historical records, which were essential for the administration of justice and governance.
In addition to record-keeping, the recorder may have served as an advisor to the king, providing insights based on historical precedents and documented events. This advisory capacity would have been invaluable in decision-making processes, as the king could rely on the recorder's knowledge of past events and legal matters.
Significance in the MonarchyThe presence of a recorder in the royal court underscores the organized and sophisticated nature of the Israelite monarchy. By maintaining accurate records, the recorder helped ensure continuity and stability within the kingdom, preserving the legacy of the king's reign for future generations. The role also highlights the importance of literacy and documentation in ancient Israel, reflecting a society that valued historical record and legal precision.
In summary, the office of the recorder was a crucial component of the administrative framework of the Israelite monarchy, serving as both a chronicler of events and an advisor to the king. Through the diligent work of recorders like Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud, the history and governance of Israel were meticulously documented, providing a foundation for the nation's identity and legacy.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Samuel 8:16And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder;
Torrey's Topical Textbook1 Kings 4:3
Elihoreph and Ahiah, the sons of Shisha, scribes; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, the recorder.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Josiah
... and Joah the son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair ... and to floor the houses which
the kings of Judah ... of the Levites there were scribes, and officers, and porters ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/josiah.htm
Professor of Sanskrit, Bengali, and Marathi
... have received the homage of the tributary kings of our ... All the principal civil and
military officers at the ... sent out to Bombay as its first recorder, Sir James ...
/.../smith/the life of william carey/chapter ix professor of sanskrit.htm
A Call to Prayer and Testimony
... the same word elsewhere translated "recorder"; and truly ... Oriental kings maintained
an officer whose business it ... English courts to remind the officers of their ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/a call to prayer and.htm
C. The Third Period. Chs. 6:12 to 8:56
... but he now determined to appoint officers who would ... prepared him to become a careful
recorder of facts ... apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.26 ...
/.../erdman/the gospel of luke an exposition/c the third period chs.htm
The Holy War,
... Of men, of laws, of countries, and of kings: And in ... The Recorder was one whose name
was Forget-good ... when it needed, might choose them officers, governors, and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm
Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... of Ahilud, who was mazhir, or recorder; he retained ... Tiglath-pileser received the
tributary kings of Syria ... mere provinces, administered by royal officers in the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm
Resources
What does it mean that Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the kings of Israel and Judah? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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