On the surface, his task was simply to provide the king with his (strong) drink. The task involved drinking some of the wine himself in the presence of the king so as to give assurance that no poison had been added to the wine. There are, however, indications from ancient literature that the role was more encompassing than simply providing the desired drink. 2 Kings 18:17–25 tells us of the Rabshakeh who challenged Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem on behalf of Sennacherib king of Assyria. The term Rabshakeh
is a composite of two Hebrew words that mean chief cupbearer.
Clearly, this Rabshakeh did much more than taste and distribute wine! The fact that the king later agreed to send Nehemiah to Jerusalem to repair the city’s gates and walls also suggests that Nehemiah had demonstrated leadership skills beyond what is commonly expected of a waiter.
11 O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.”Now I was cupbearer to the king.