Zebedee
Zebedee in the Bible — father of James and John (MAT 4:21). Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “abundant; portion”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Zebedee was a male fisherman known primarily as the father of James and John. He is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew as mending his nets when Jesus called his sons to follow Him. His occupation and family role highlight his place within the early narrative of Jesus' ministry.
Names & Titles
The name Zebedee means 'YHWH bestows,' reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names. This proper name is recorded in Matthew 4:21 without indication that it was given directly by God.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Zebedee as the father of James, and by extension, he is also the father of John. No other family relationships are recorded beyond this.
Significance
Zebedee's significance lies in his connection to two of Jesus' closest disciples, James and John, who were called while working in their father's fishing business. His presence in the narrative underscores the ordinary, working-class background of Jesus' followers and sets the stage for the transformative call to discipleship.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- זַבְדִּי
- Transliteration
- zavədiy
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h bestows
- Greek
- Ζεβεδαῖος
- Reference
- MAT 4:21
- Strong's
- H2067
Family & Relationships (1)
father
Notes
fisherman (mending their nets- MAT 4:21)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zebedee in the Bible?
Zebedee was a male fisherman known primarily as the father of James and John. He is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew as mending his nets when Jesus called his sons to follow Him. His occupation and family role highlight his place within the early narrative of Jesus' ministry.
What does the name Zebedee mean?
The name Zebedee means “abundant; portion” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.