Jehoshaphat
Jehoshaphat served as a recorder for King David and his son Solomon.
Biography
Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud served as royal recorder under both King David and his son King Solomon, making him one of the key administrative figures spanning the transition from the Davidic to the Solomonic era of the united monarchy (2 Samuel 8:16; 1 Kings 4:3). The role of recorder (Hebrew: mazkir) was a senior court position responsible for maintaining official records, announcing royal decrees, and serving as a liaison between the king and various court departments. His longevity in service across two reigns indicates both his competence and the continuity of administration David and Solomon sought. He is listed among the chief officials of both courts, placing him in the inner circle of Israel's greatest monarchs.
Significance
Jehoshaphat the recorder exemplifies the importance of institutional continuity in enabling great leaders to accomplish lasting work. By bridging the administrations of David and Solomon, he helped ensure that the kingdom's records, policies, and communications remained stable through the succession, a transition that could easily have disrupted Israel's momentum. His faithfulness in a supporting role reflects a principle that runs throughout Scripture: God's kingdom is advanced not only through visionary leaders but through capable, devoted servants who maintain the fabric of orderly governance and faithful stewardship.
Verse Appearances (4)
References
- Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
- Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
- Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
- Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]