nebuzaradan Summary and Overview
Bible Dictionaries at a Glance
nebuzaradan in Easton's Bible Dictionary
"the captain of the guard," in rank next to the king, who appears prominent in directing affairs at the capture of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:8-20; Jer. 39:11; 40:2-5). He showed kindness toward Jeremiah, as commanded by Nebuchadnezzar (40:1). Five years after this he again came to Jerusalem and carried captive seven hundred and forty-five more Jews.
nebuzaradan in Fausset's Bible Dictionary
From Nebo, the idol; zar, "prince"; and adan or 'adown, "lord" (Gesenius); but Furst, from dana (Sanskrit), "cut off." "Captain of the guard," literally, "chief of the slaughterers"; next to the royal person (2 Kings 25:8-18; Jeremiah 39:9-13). Assumed the chief command on arriving after the siege of Jerusalem. Directed what was to be done with the plunder and captives. (See CAPTIVITY.) Took the chief Jews for judgment to Nebuchadnezzar at Riblah. Visited Jerusalem four years later, and took away more captives (Jeremiah 52:30). By Nebuchadnezzar's direction, Nebuzaradan "looked well to Jeremiah," gave him his choice of going to Babylon or staying, then sent him with victuals and a present, to be protected by Gedaliah the governor left over Judah, after having first told the Jews "Jehovah hath done according as He hath said, because ye have sinned against Jehovah" (Jeremiah 39:11-14; Jeremiah 40:2-5). The pagan knew, through Jeremiah, it was Jehovah's doing; compare the prophecy, Deuteronomy 29:24-25. How humiliating to the Jews to be admonished of their sin by a Gentile ruler!