Bible Figure
Zerubbabel
Biblical character
Zerubbabel was a descendant of David who served as governor of Judah and led the early postexilic community in rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem.
Biography
Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel appears among the leaders of the return from Babylon authorized by Cyrus of Persia. Together with the high priest Jeshua or Joshua, he helped restore the altar and begin rebuilding the Temple. Opposition interrupted the work, but the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah encouraged Zerubbabel and the people to resume construction. Haggai repeatedly addressed him as governor and promised God's presence. Zechariah declared that the work would be accomplished not by might or power but by God's Spirit and pictured Zerubbabel completing what he had begun. Zerubbabel also appears in the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke.
Biblical Significance
Zerubbabel links the restored postexilic community with the Davidic royal line. Though not a king, he became a focus of renewed hope as God reestablished worship in Jerusalem and preserved the lineage associated with messianic promise.