# cupbearer

## Definition:

In Old Testament times, a “cupbearer” was a king’s servant who was given the task of bringing the king his cup of wine, usually tasting the wine first to make sure it had not been poisoned.

* The literal meaning of this term is “cup bringer” or “someone who brings the cup.”
* A cupbearer was known for being very trustworthy and loyal to his king.
* Because of his trusted position, a cupbearer would often have influence in the decisions the ruler made.
* Nehemiah was the cupbearer for King Artaxerxes of Persia during the time when some of the Israelites were in captivity in Babylon.

(See also: [Artaxerxes](../names/artaxerxes.md), [Babylon](../names/babylon.md), [captive](../other/captive.md), [Persia](../names/persia.md), [Pharaoh](../names/pharaoh.md))

## Bible References:

* [1 Kings 10:3-5](rc://en/tn/help/1ki/10/03)
* [Nehemiah 01:11](rc://en/tn/help/neh/01/11)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H8248
