Zib'iah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Judean monarchy. She is recognized as the mother of King Joash (also known as Jehoash), who was one of the kings of Judah. Her mention in the Scriptures is brief, yet she holds significance due to her role in the Davidic line of kings.

Biblical References:

Zib'iah is mentioned in 2 Kings 12:1 and 2 Chronicles 24:1. In these passages, she is identified as the mother of Joash and is noted to be from Beersheba, a city located in the southern part of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following references:

· 2 Kings 12:1 : "In the seventh year of Jehu, Joash became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba."
· 2 Chronicles 24:1 : "Joash was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Zib'iah lived during a tumultuous period in the history of Judah. Her son, Joash, ascended to the throne at a very young age, following the assassination of his grandmother, Queen Athaliah, who had seized power after the death of her son, King Ahaziah. Joash's reign was marked by significant religious reforms, particularly the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem, which had fallen into disrepair.

Zib'iah's origins from Beersheba, a significant city in the Negev region, suggest that she may have been part of a family with some standing or influence, although the Bible does not provide further details about her lineage or background. Beersheba was an important center in the southern kingdom, often associated with the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac, adding a layer of historical depth to her identity.

Theological Significance:

While Zib'iah herself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, her role as the mother of Joash places her within the lineage of the Davidic dynasty, which holds profound theological importance in the biblical narrative. The Davidic line is central to the messianic prophecies and the unfolding of God's covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule over Israel.

Zib'iah's mention in the Scriptures, though brief, underscores the importance of maternal figures in the biblical genealogies and the continuity of God's promises through successive generations. Her son Joash's efforts to restore the Temple highlight the ongoing struggle to maintain faithfulness to the covenant and the centrality of worship in the life of Israel.

Conclusion:

Zib'iah's legacy, as recorded in the Bible, is primarily through her son Joash, whose reign had lasting impacts on the religious life of Judah. Her mention in the biblical text serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked yet vital roles that women played in the history and spiritual heritage of Israel.Zib'iah (2 Occurrences)

2 Kings 12:1
In the seventh year of Jehu began Jehoash to reign; and he reigned forty years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Zibiah of Beer-sheba.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 24:1
Joash was seven years old when he began to reign; and he reigned forty years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Zibiah of Beer-sheba.
(See RSV)

Zib'iah (2 Occurrences)
Zib'iah. Zibiah, Zib'iah. Zichri . Multi-Version Concordance Zib'iah (2
Occurrences). 2 Kings 12:1 In the seventh year of Jehu began ...
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Zichri (12 Occurrences)

/z/zichri.htm - 12k

Zibiah (2 Occurrences)

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