2 Samuel 20:25

And Sheua was scribe, and Zadok, and Abiathar were the Priests. 2 Samuel 20:25 (KJV)

2 Samuel 20 recounts a period of political turmoil in Israel after the rebellion of Absalom, David’s son. Following Absalom’s death, Sheba, a man from the tribe of Benjamin, instigates another rebellion against King David. Sheba’s revolt causes division within the kingdom, and Joab, David’s general, pursues Sheba.

The verse in question does not appear in 2 Samuel 20 or any other canonical passage.

Key Characters: Sheba (also rendered as Sheva or Shavsha) is described in the narrative as a Benjaminite rebel leader, highlighting the political instability of David’s rule. The verse itself names a scribe called Sheva, suggesting a governmental official responsible for recording and documenting important matters, though this identification is not found in the canonical text. Zadok and Abiathar are identified as priests. Both were prominent high priests during King David’s reign and played pivotal roles in supporting David and remaining loyal during various challenges. Their presence reflects the significant role of the priesthood in Israel’s religious life.

Significance: The mention of a scribe named Sheva emphasizes the importance of organization and record‑keeping within David’s kingdom, suggesting that the administration required efficient processes to govern effectively. The inclusion of Zadok and Abiathar underscores the importance of religious leadership, as the priests were responsible for overseeing rituals and ceremonies and served as spiritual guides for the nation. While the specific combined wording of the verse is not supported by the biblical text, the reference to Zadok and Abiathar correctly acknowledges their priestly status and highlights the intertwined nature of administrative and religious authority in David’s reign.