Strong’s G4524: From Hebrew צָדוֹק (Zadok), meaning “righteous” or “just.” A name appearing in Jesus’s genealogy in Matthew, representing the faithful priestly line descended from Aaron. The original Zadok served as high priest under David and Solomon, establishing a legacy of faithful priesthood.

U- Unveiling the Word

The name Σαδώκ carries deep theological significance in biblical history. Appearing in Matthew 1:14 as part of Jesus’s genealogy, it connects to the faithful priestly lineage that maintained true worship in Israel. The original Zadok’s unwavering loyalty to David and Solomon established a standard for faithful priesthood, making his name synonymous with legitimate Temple service. Early church fathers saw in this name a prefiguring of Christ’s perfect priesthood. Today, Σαδώκ reminds us of the faithful priesthood that ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus, our eternal High Priest.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σαδώκ, Sadōk, /sad-oke’/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sad” (like ‘sad’), “oke” (like ‘oak’)
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

• From Hebrew צָדוֹק (Zadok)
• Root: צדק (tzdk) – righteousness, justice
• No Greek prefixes or suffixes
• Transliteration of Hebrew name

D – Defining Meanings

• Righteous one
• Just one
• Faithful priest
• Legitimate priesthood

For compound words:
Not a compound word – it’s a transliteration of a Hebrew name

Translation Options:

• “Zadok” – traditional English transliteration
• “Sadok” – alternate transliteration
• “Righteous One” – meaning-based translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• δίκαιος (dikaios) /dik’-ah-yos/ – righteous See G1342 – Greek equivalent meaning
• ἱερεύς (hiereus) /hee-er-yuce’/ – priest See G2409 – related role
• ἀρχιερεύς (archiereus) /ar-khee-er-yuce’/ – high priest See G749 – related office

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a proper noun:

• Indeclinable
• No case changes
• No number changes
• No gender variations

The name remains unchanged in Greek text as it’s a transliteration.

Cross-references:

• Hebrew equivalent: צָדוֹק (Zadok)
• Related concept: צֶדֶק (tzedek) – righteousness

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes Σαδώκ’s significance in priestly lineage. Thayer’s connects it to righteous priesthood. LSJ notes its use as a proper name. Vine’s highlights its appearance in Jesus’s genealogy. Strong’s traces its Hebrew etymology. LEH documents its Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan show its continued use in Jewish names.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

Azor was the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim (Matthew 1:14)

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The name Σαδώκ points to the faithful priesthood that finds its ultimate fulfillment in King Jesus. Just as Zadok remained loyal to God’s chosen king, this name in Jesus’s genealogy reminds us that Christ combines perfect righteousness with perfect priesthood. This proclaims the good news that we have a High Priest who is forever faithful and just, mediating perfectly between God and humanity.

D – Did You Know?

1. Zadok’s descendants served as high priests until the Maccabean period.
2. The term “Zadokite” became synonymous with legitimate priesthood.
3. The Dead Sea Scrolls contain references to “Sons of Zadok” as true priests.

Strong’s G4524: From Hebrew צָדוֹק (Zadok), meaning “righteous” or “just.” A name appearing in Jesus’s genealogy in Matthew, representing the faithful priestly line descended from Aaron. The original Zadok served as high priest under David and Solomon, establishing a legacy of faithful priesthood.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: Zadok, priesthood, genealogy, Matthew’s Gospel, righteousness, David, Solomon, Temple service, high priest, Jesus’s ancestry​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​