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Tyndale Open Bible Dictionary

TASKMASTER*

An overseer of public workers who enforced their performance. Taskmasters are depicted on Egyptian bas-reliefs with whips in their hands to enforce discipline (Ex 1:11; 3:7; 5:6-14; Jb 3:18). The Hebrew verb means “to oppress.” David and Solomon had such officers. Adoram was in charge of forced labor (2 Sm 20:24; 1 Kgs 4:6; 12:18; 2 Chr 10:18). The excesses of these men were a factor in the revolt of the northern tribes after the death of Solomon (1 Kgs 12:3-14).