Lexical Summary Chagab: Locust Original Word: חָגָב Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Hagab The same as chagab; locust; Chagab, one of the Nethinim -- Hagab. see HEBREW chagab NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as chagab Definition an Isr. NASB Translation Hagab (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs II. חָגָּב proper name, masculine head of a family of returning exiles Ezra 2:46 ᵐ5 Ἁγαβ (no "" in Nehemiah 7 H; but ᵐ5L Nehemiah 7:48 has both Αγαβ and Αγαβα, compare חֲגָבָא). Topical Lexicon Meaning and Background Hagab appears to be a personal or clan name derived from a common Hebrew term for “locust.” While the word elsewhere can describe a small but prolific insect (for example, Proverbs 30:27; Joel 1:4), in Ezra it identifies a family group. The implied connection between the humble locust and a servant people underscores a theme of modest yet essential service within the covenant community. Biblical Occurrence Ezra records only one appearance of the name: “the descendants of Hagab” (Ezra 2:46). They are listed among the Nethinim—temple servants—who returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. A closely related form, “Hagaba,” is found in the parallel census of Nehemiah 7:48, suggesting a shared lineage or scribal variation. Historical Setting The roster in Ezra 2 chronicles a critical moment in Israel’s restoration (circa 538–535 BC). The Nethinim likely descended from non-Israelite groups assigned to assist the Levites in menial but necessary tasks (see Ezra 8:20). Their willingness to leave the relative security of exile and embrace an arduous journey back to a devastated Jerusalem testifies to their devotion to the worship of the LORD. Role Among the Nethinim Though never occupying center stage, the Nethinim enabled proper temple function by providing water, wood, and daily logistical help (compare Joshua 9:27). As one of thirty-nine Nethinim families named, the descendants of Hagab shared in maintaining the rhythm of sacrifice and praise at the rebuilt altar (Ezra 3:2–6). Their inclusion in the covenant renewal ceremony (Nehemiah 10:28–29) highlights their spiritual solidarity with priests and Levites alike. Theological Significance 1. God Remembers Every Servant. The inspired record preserves even minor family names. “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58) finds an Old Testament echo in the listing of Hagab. Connections Beyond Ezra A New Testament prophet named Agabus (Acts 11:28; Acts 21:10) bears a Greek form that resembles the Hebrew Hagab. While a direct genealogical link cannot be proven, both names evoke the locust imagery and remind readers that the spirit of prophetic and practical service spans both covenants. Practical Application for Ministry • Celebrate Unsung Labor. Faith communities should publicly thank those who clean, set up, and handle administrative details—modern “descendants of Hagab.” Summary Hagab represents a family of post-exilic temple servants whose humble dedication contributed indispensably to the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem. Though mentioned only once, their inclusion in Scripture affirms God’s esteem for every faithful worker and invites believers to value quiet, steadfast ministry that supports His unfolding plan. Forms and Transliterations חָגָ֥ב חגב chaGav ḥā·ḡāḇ ḥāḡāḇLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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