CHARACTER STUDY ~ ZIBA

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The name Ziba in Hebrew means "statue or pillar". Other jurisdictions explain the name Ziba to mean "army, fight, and strength". He is a character who displays loyalty, deception, and the complexity of human nature in relationships. 

Some Characteristics of Ziba:
√ Ziba was a servant of King Saul. He served King Saul until David became King after Saul's death.         

√ Ziba was called upon when King David wanted to know if there was anyone left in the house of Saul whom he could do good to. Being a chief servant, he had all the detailed information David needed. We must also be observant in discharging our duties. 

√ Ziba discredited Mephibosheth before David on account that he was crippled and lives in Lo-debar. His narration is to tell King David that even if he is willing to show kindness to Jonathan's son, he is unfit to be in the palace, but King David followed his own instinct. 

√ Ziba was made to serve Mephibosheth and his children after being restored to his grandfather's fortune. Ziba, his fifteen sons and twenty servants were to work for Mephibosheth. 

√ Ziba brought provisions to King David and his companions during Absalom's rebellion. It was thoughtful of him to think of the well-being of the King and his household. We must also learn to do good, but not to show off or discredit others. 

√ Ziba's true character came to question during the rebellion of Absalom. David wanted to know why Mephibosheth was not with him: “And where is your master’s son?” Ziba said to the king, "Indeed, he is staying in Jerusalem, for he said, ‘Today the house of Israel will restore the kingdom of my father to me." A cripple cannot be made king in Israel. 

√ Ziba's deceit was exposed when David asked Mephibosheth why he stayed back in Jerusalem. His response was “My lord, O king, my servant deceived me...”

√ Earlier, when Ziba brought the provisions to the King and maligned his master, King David gave everything Mephibosheth owned to him. To resolve any misunderstanding and future troubles, King David, upon hearing Mephibosheth's side of the story, asked that Saul's inheritance be shared between Ziba and Mephibosheth. Let us be mindful not to malign others.  

What have you learned from Ziba's character? Share your comments in the comments section below. 


Supporting Scriptures: 2 Samuel 9:1-11; 16:1-4; & 19:24-30

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