In biblical times, the role of a secretary, also known as a scribe, was a position of significant importance and responsibility. Secretaries were entrusted with the task of recording, preserving, and sometimes interpreting important documents, decrees, and communications. Their work was crucial in maintaining the administrative and legal functions of a kingdom or community.

Old Testament Context

The role of a secretary is mentioned in several instances throughout the Old Testament. One of the earliest references is found in the time of King David. In 2 Samuel 8:17, we read about Seraiah, who served as a secretary: "Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests; Seraiah was the scribe." The secretary's duties likely included recording the king's decisions, managing correspondence, and maintaining official records.

During the reign of King Solomon, the position of secretary continued to hold prominence. In 1 Kings 4:3, we see mention of secretaries in Solomon's administration: "Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were secretaries; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder." These individuals were part of the king's inner circle, responsible for the efficient operation of the kingdom's affairs.

Role in the Kingdom of Judah

The role of the secretary was also significant in the Kingdom of Judah. In 2 Kings 18:18, we encounter Shebna, who served as a secretary under King Hezekiah: "They called for the king, and Eliakim son of Hilkiah the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder went out to them." Shebna's position indicates the trust and authority placed in secretaries as they were involved in high-level negotiations and communications.

The Book of Jeremiah

The prophet Jeremiah also had a scribe named Baruch, who played a crucial role in recording Jeremiah's prophecies. In Jeremiah 36:4, it is written: "So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all the words that the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on a scroll." Baruch's work as a secretary was vital in ensuring that the words of the Lord, as spoken through Jeremiah, were accurately documented and preserved for future generations.

New Testament Context

While the specific title of "secretary" is not as prominently mentioned in the New Testament, the role of scribes, who were experts in the Law, is frequently noted. These scribes were responsible for copying and interpreting the Scriptures and were often consulted on matters of religious law and tradition. In Matthew 23:2, Jesus acknowledges their authority: "The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat."

Conclusion

Throughout biblical history, secretaries played a vital role in the administration and preservation of important documents and communications. Their work ensured the continuity and integrity of both secular and sacred texts, making them indispensable to the functioning of ancient societies.

Let us understand what was the wrong...
... that a few had them, and by your own confession the statement that no one had them
is overthrown, what becomes of your complaint that your secretary was bribed ...
/.../5 let us understand what.htm

"Love that Passeth Knowledge. "
... When she got to the Secretary's room, where the President's private secretary was,
he refused to allow her to enter the private office of the President. ...
/.../moody/the way to god and how to find it/chapter i love that passeth.htm

Secretary's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Secretary's (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 36:12 he
went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber ...
/s/secretary's.htm - 6k

Secretary (34 Occurrences)
... of a particular department of government, and who is usually a member of the cabinet
or advisory council of the chief executive; as, the secretary of state ...
/s/secretary.htm - 18k

Secrete (1 Occurrence)

/s/secrete.htm - 7k

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