Who were the descendants of Gazzam, Uzza, amd Paseah Opening the Scroll “the descendants of Gazzam, the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah.” (Nehemiah 7:51) Who Were They? • Sons of three family lines—Gazzam, Uzza, and Paseah—listed among the Nethinim (temple servants). • The Nethinim were non-Levitical helpers set apart to assist the Levites with practical tasks connected to worship (Ezra 8:20). • Their forefathers were likely foreign captives or Gibeonite survivors (compare Joshua 9:27) dedicated “for the service of the house of God.” Where Else Do We Meet Them? • Ezra 2:47-50 echoes the same three families returning with Zerubbabel nearly a century earlier. • 1 Chronicles 9:2 records that, after the exile, “the temple servants” (Nethinim) settled in Jerusalem alongside priests and Levites. • Numbers 3:5-9 sets the pattern for support roles: Levites minister, helpers assist. The Nethinim carry that pattern forward. What Did They Do? • Drew water, cut wood, and handled everyday logistics so priests and Levites could focus on sacrifices (Joshua 9:21, 27). • Guarded gates, maintained utensils, and prepared supplies needed for feasts (cf. 1 Chronicles 9:17-29 for similar duties). • Modeled humble, faithful service—working quietly yet indispensably for the glory of God. Why the Genealogy Matters • Confirms God’s meticulous care in preserving every servant line after exile (Nehemiah 7:5). • Affirms covenant faithfulness: each family reclaims its place in worship, fulfilling promises spoken through Moses (Deuteronomy 30:3-5). • Foreshadows the body of Christ, where every member—visible or behind-the-scenes—has vital purpose (1 Corinthians 12:18-22). Takeaway for Us Gazzam, Uzza, and Paseah may sound obscure, yet their recorded names remind us that God values faithful service over public prominence. Just as their quiet labor sustained temple life, everyday acts of obedience today sustain the witness of the church and magnify the Lord who “is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown for His name” (Hebrews 6:10). |
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