Bible Dictionary
Ebedmelech
Ebed-melech, meaning “servant of the king,” was an Ethiopian eunuch in King Zedekiah’s service. He intervened to rescue the prophet Jeremiah from imprisonment and received a promise of protection from God.
Definition
Ebed-melech, meaning “a king’s servant,” was an Ethiopian eunuch in the service of King Zedekiah. He intervened when Jeremiah was imprisoned and secured the prophet’s release from the dungeon.
Biblical Usage
Ebed-melech’s biblical significance lies in his rescue of Jeremiah and in the promise given to him that his life would be preserved during the fall of Jerusalem.
Historical Background
The sources identify him as a royal servant and date the account to the reign of Zedekiah.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(a king’s servant), an Ethiopian eunuch in the service of King Zedekiah, through whose interference Jeremiah was released from prison. (Jeremiah 38:7) ff.; Jere 39:15 ff. (B.C. 1589).