Zeruiah
Zeruiah in the Bible — mother of Abishai, Joab (1SA 26:6), and Asahel (2SA 2:18), sister of King David (1CH 2:16). Zeruiah belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 6 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “pain or tribulation of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- female
- Tribe
- Judah
- Scripture References
- 6 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 5 connections
Biography
Zeruiah was a woman from the tribe of Judah, known primarily as the sister of King David. She is recognized biblically as the mother of three notable sons who played significant roles in Israel's history. Her identity is firmly rooted in her family connections within the tribe of Judah.
Names & Titles
The name Zeruiah means 'perfumed resin,' a proper name mentioned in Scripture that does not appear to have been given directly by God. This name reflects a unique personal identity within the biblical narrative.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Zeruiah as the sister of David and, by inference, the sister of Abigail. She is also noted as the mother of Abishai, Joab, and Asahel, three sons who are mentioned in the historical books of Samuel. These relationships highlight her important familial role in the royal and military leadership of Israel.
Significance
Zeruiah’s significance in the biblical narrative comes from her close connection to King David and her role as the mother of three influential military leaders. Her sons, Abishai, Joab, and Asahel, are frequently mentioned in the accounts of David’s reign, indicating her family’s prominence in Israel’s history. Though not much is said about her personally, her lineage and offspring contribute to the unfolding of God’s plan for Israel through David’s dynasty.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- צְרוּיָה
- Transliteration
- tsəruyah
- Meaning
- perfumed resin
- Greek
- Σαρουιας
- Reference
- 1SA 26:6
- Strong's
- H6870
Family & Relationships (5)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zeruiah in the Bible?
Zeruiah was a woman from the tribe of Judah, known primarily as the sister of King David. She is recognized biblically as the mother of three notable sons who played significant roles in Israel's history. Her identity is firmly rooted in her family connections within the tribe of Judah.
What does the name Zeruiah mean?
The name Zeruiah means “pain or tribulation of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.