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H139 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אֲדֹנִי-צֶדֶק
Adoni-Zedek
Noun, masculine proper name
Adoni-Zedek; lord of righteousness

Definition

The Hebrew name Adoni-Zedek (H139) means "lord of righteousness" or "my lord is righteous." He was the Amorite king of Jerusalem during the Israelite conquest who organized a coalition of five kings against the Gibeonites after their peace treaty with Joshua (Joshua 10).

Ironically, the king who bore the name "lord of righteousness" became an instrument of opposition to God's righteous purposes — a sobering reminder that titles and names do not guarantee character.

Usage & Theological Significance

Adoni-Zedek's name connects him to Jerusalem's ancient tradition: the earlier king Melchizedek (H4442, "king of righteousness") had blessed Abram and received his tithe (Genesis 14:18-20). Where Melchizedek pointed forward to the true priestly king, Adoni-Zedek became an opponent of God's plan.

The battle of Gibeon where Adoni-Zedek was defeated saw one of Scripture's greatest miracles — the sun standing still (Joshua 10:12-14). The righteous cause of Israel, empowered by Yahweh, overcame the coalition, demonstrating that no human title or alliance can stand against the LORD of righteousness Himself.

Key Bible Verses

Joshua 10:1 Now Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem heard that Joshua had taken Ai and totally destroyed it.
Joshua 10:3 So Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem appealed to Hoham king of Hebron, Piram king of Jarmuth, Japhia king of Lachish and Debir king of Eglon.
Joshua 10:12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD, "Sun, stand still over Gibeon."
Genesis 14:18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High.
Psalm 110:4 You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.

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External Resources

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