The Zabians (or Sabians)

1.    We find them mentioned in Scripture in Deut. 17:3 Job 31:26–28 II Kings 17:16 21:3 23:5 Jer. 8:2

2.    These were people known for the worship of heavenly bodies. So far, my only source for iformation on them is Freeman’s Manners and Customs of the Bible. This does not appear to be a particular nation of people but more of a cult which might be found in several different nations.

3.    Their name probably comes from tsaba, from the Hebrew, which refers to the heavenly host.

4.    Since God created all the planets and stars (Gen. 2:1) and since He directs their paths (Job 9:7–9), they are a part of the creation, and we are admonished to worship the Creator not the creature.

5.    The Zabians sowed both barley and dried grapes together, as a means of gaining blessing from the gods and thereby attaining a good harvest and a good vintage of wine. The Israelites were not allowed to sow their seed in this way as it was such a close association with idolatry.

6.    Freeman also points out that the Zabians wore robes of linen and wool, which was also a step to obtain blessing from the gods on their sheep and flax.