ZADOK

ZADOK

zā´dok (צדוק, cādowḳ, once צדק, cādhōḳ (1Ki_1:26), similar to צדּיק, caddı̄ḳ, and צדּוּק, caddūḳ, post-Biblical, meaning justus, “righteous”; Septuagint Σαδώκ, Sadṓk): Cheyne in Encyclopedia Biblica suggests that Zadok was a modification of a Gentilic name, that of the Zidkites the Negeb, who probably derived their appellation from the root צדק, cdḳ, a secondary title of the god they worshipped. At the same time Cheyne admits that cultivated Israelites may have interpreted Zadok as meaning “just,” “righteous” - a much more credible supposition.

Ezekiel's reference to Zadok's descendants as the only legitimate priests in the vision-temple does not prove that Zadok himself was a soldier who climbed up into the priesthood. Even if the critical interpretation of the vision-temple were correct, it in no way affects the personality of Zadok, and certainly does not disprove his original connection with the priesthood or his descent from Eleazar.

International  Standard Biblical Encyclopedia

Zadok — The priests of the line of Ithamar were to be discharged from ministrations in the temple, because of their corruptions, following in the steps of Eli’s sons, against whom the same denunciation was uttered (1Sa_2:32, 1Sa_2:35). Zadok, according to his name (which means “righteous”) and his line, were to succeed (1Ki_2:35; 1Ch_24:3), as they did not take part in the general apostasy to the same degree, and perhaps [Fairbairn] the prophet, referring to their original state, speaks of them as they appeared when first chosen to the office.Son of Ahitub, of the house of Eleazar, son of Aaron (1Ch_24:3). Joined David at Hebron after Saul's death, with 22 captains of his father's house. At Absalom's revolt Zadok and the Levites bearing the ark accompanied David in leaving Jerusalem, but at his request returned with the ark and along with Hushai and Abiathar became David's medium of knowing events passing in the city, through Jonathan and Ahimaaz. At Absasalom's death David desired Zadok and Abiathar to persuade the elders of Judah to invite him to return (2 Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 17; 2 Samuel 19). Zadok remained faithful in Adonijah's rebellion when Abiathar joined it. Zadok, with Nathan the prophet, anointed Solomon at Gihon by David's command (a second anointing took place subsequently: 1Ch_29:22). So Solomon put Zadok instead of Abiathar, fulfilling the curse on Eli (1 Samuel 2; 3; 1Ki_2:27; 1Ki_2:35; 1Ki_4:4; 1Ch_29:22)
K&D Commentary