Bible Dictionary
Ebed
Ebed means “servant.” The name refers chiefly to the father of Gaal, who took part in the rebellion against Abimelech, and also to a man who returned with Ezra from exile.
Definition
Ebed means “servant.” The name chiefly identifies the father of Gaal, whose son joined the rebellion against Abimelech, and also a companion of Ezra who returned from exile. The name therefore belongs to more than one biblical person.
Biblical Usage
Ebed’s principal biblical association is with Gaal’s rebellion against Abimelech. Another Ebed is listed among Ezra’s companions in the return from exile.
Historical Background
The name is explained from the Hebrew term meaning servant. Some manuscripts and related lists contain variant forms of the name.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Slave, the father of Gaal, in whom the men of Shechem “put confidence” in their conspiracy against Abimelech (Judg. 9:26, 26, 30, 31).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(a servant). (Many MSS. have Eber.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>e'-bed (`ebhedh, "servant"):</p><p>(1) Father of Gaal, who rebelled against Abimelech (Jud 9:26-35).</p><p>(2) A companion of Ezra in his return (Ezr 8:6) = Obeth (APC 1Esdras 8:32).</p>