Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for uncovering the rich, contextual meanings embedded in the New Testament. The Greek word Ζεβεδαῖος (Zebedaios) refers to a notable biblical figure, Zebedee, the father of James and John, two of Jesus’ apostles. This name is significant not only in the context of the Gospels but also in understanding the cultural and social settings of ancient Jewish society during the time of Jesus. Knowing more about such names enriches our grasp of Biblical narratives and their historical backdrop.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ζεβεδαῖος (Zebedaios) [zeh-beh-DY-ohs]
• Etymology: From the Hebrew זְבַדְיָה (Zebadiah), meaning “Yahweh has bestowed” or “gift of Yahweh.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine; it is a first declension noun.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Zebedee: A personal name referring to the father of James and John, who were among the twelve apostles of Jesus.
• A fisherman: Zebedee is known as a fisherman in the New Testament, emphasizing his social and economic status in ancient Jewish society.

Similar Words: Ζαχαρίας (Zacharias) [zah-kah-REE-ahs], which is another proper noun of Hebrew origin meaning “Yahweh remembers.” While both names have a theophoric element involving “Yahweh,” Zacharias focuses on remembrance, whereas Zebedaios centers on bestowal or gifting by God.

Further Insights: Ζεβεδαῖος is a masculine proper noun in the first declension, which follows a specific pattern in Koine Greek. Below is the declension chart for Ζεβεδαῖος:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Identifies Ζεβεδαῖος as the “father of James and John, two of Jesus’ disciples.” It notes his role as a fisherman and mentions the family’s social and economic context.
• Thayer’s: Describes Ζεβεδαῖος as “a Hebrew name, Zebedee,” emphasizing his identity as a fisherman in Galilee and the father of James and John.
• Vine’s: Focuses on the theological implications of Zebedee’s family, noting the significance of his sons becoming apostles and his potential connections with early Christian communities.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Primarily lists Ζεβεδαῖος in the context of the New Testament, giving reference to its Hebrew origins and historical context in Jewish culture.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists Ζεβεδαῖος as Strong’s G2199, emphasizing its Hebrew roots and the familial relationships of James and John, both prominent figures in the New Testament.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 4:21 – “Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee [Ζεβεδαίου], and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee [Ζεβεδαίῳ] their father, mending their nets; and He called them.”
• Mark 1:19 – “Going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee [Ζεβεδαίου] and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets.”
• Luke 5:10 – “And so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee [Ζεβεδαίου], who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not fear, from now on you will be catching men.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ζεβεδαῖος (G2199: Zebedaios)

The Greek name Ζεβεδαῖος (Strong’s G2199) is significant in the New Testament as it refers to Zebedee, the father of James and John, two of the twelve apostles. Understanding this name helps readers grasp the familial and social context of several New Testament passages, particularly those related to the calling of the apostles. The name’s Hebrew origin underscores the cultural backdrop of the New Testament, connecting it to Jewish traditions and beliefs. As a fisherman, Zebedee’s identity also illustrates the humble beginnings from which many of Jesus’ followers were called.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Zebedee’s wife, Salome, is traditionally thought to be one of the women who followed Jesus and supported His ministry? Some scholars even speculate that Zebedee’s family might have been relatively well-off, as implied by the presence of “hired servants” mentioned in the Gospel of Mark, giving further context to the socio-economic background of the apostles James and John.