Bible Dictionary
Cup-bearer
A cup-bearer was a trusted and influential officer who served wine to an ancient king. Joseph encountered such an official in Egypt, and Nehemiah held this position in the Persian court.
Definition
A cup-bearer was a high-ranking officer who served wine to a king. The position was held at Egyptian, Persian, Assyrian, and Jewish courts and required a person trusted by the monarch.
Biblical Usage
Joseph encountered the king of Egypt’s cup-bearer, Nehemiah served as cup-bearer to the king of Persia, and Solomon’s cup-bearers contributed to the impression made by his royal court.
Historical Background
The office involved presenting the king’s cup personally and could carry substantial influence because of the cup-bearer’s close access to the ruler.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
An officer of high rank with Egyptian, Persian, Assyrian, and Jewish monarchs. The cup-bearer of the king of Egypt is mentioned in connection with Joseph’s history (Gen. 40:1-21; 41:9). Rabshakeh (q.v.) was cup-bearer in the Assyrian court (2 Kings 18:17). Nehemiah filled this office to the king of Persia (Neh. 1:11). We read also of Solomon’s cup-bearers (1 Kings 10:5; 2 Chr. 9:4).