Name Meaning: The name "Abisue" is derived from the Hebrew "אֲבִישׁוּעַ" (Avishua), which means "my father is rescue" or "father of help."

Biblical References: Abisue is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Levi, specifically within the lineage of the high priests. He is noted in the context of the priestly succession from Aaron, the brother of Moses.

1. 1 Chronicles 6:4-5 : "Eleazar was the father of Phinehas, Phinehas was the father of Abishua, Abishua was the father of Bukki, Bukki was the father of Uzzi." In this passage, Abisue (rendered as Abishua in the) is listed as a descendant of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, and the father of Bukki. This lineage highlights the continuity of the priestly line through which the duties and responsibilities of the priesthood were passed down.

2. Ezra 7:4-5 : "the son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki, the son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the chief priest." Here, Abisue is again mentioned in the genealogy of Ezra, a scribe and priest who played a significant role in the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon. This genealogy underscores the legitimacy and authority of Ezra's priestly heritage.

Historical Context: Abisue lived during the period following the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land. As a member of the priestly family, he would have been involved in the religious and ceremonial life of the Israelite community. The priesthood was central to maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel, and Abisue's place in this lineage signifies his role in this sacred tradition.

Role in the Priesthood: Although specific details about Abisue's life and activities are not provided in the biblical text, his inclusion in the genealogical records indicates his importance in the transmission of the priestly office. The high priesthood was a hereditary position, and Abisue's role would have been crucial in ensuring the continuity of religious practices and the upholding of the Law as given to Moses.

Significance in Biblical Genealogy: The genealogies in which Abisue appears serve to establish the legitimacy and continuity of the priestly line from Aaron through successive generations. This continuity was vital for the religious identity and stability of the Israelite community, especially during times of transition and upheaval, such as the Babylonian exile and the subsequent return to Jerusalem.

Cultural and Theological Implications: The mention of Abisue in the genealogical records reflects the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. It emphasizes the concept of divine election and the special role of the Levites, particularly the descendants of Aaron, in serving as mediators between God and His people. The priestly line, including figures like Abisue, was integral to the maintenance of the sacrificial system and the observance of the Law, which were central to Israelite worship and identity.ABISUE

a-bis'-u-e (Codex Vaticanus, Abisai; Codex Alexandrinus, Abisouai; the King James Version Abisum = Abishua (1 Chronicles 6:4; Ezra 7:5) and Abissei (2 Esdras 1:2)): An ancestor of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2).

Abisue
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABISUE. a-bis'-ue (Codex Vaticanus, Abisai;
Codex Alexandrinus, Abisouai; the King James Version ...
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Abissei
... ABISSEI. a-bis'-ei (King James Version Abisei): An ancestor of Ezra (2 Esdras
1:2) = Abisue (1 Esdras 8:2) and Abishua (1 Chronicles 6:4; Ezra 7:5). ...
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Abisum
Abisum. Abisue, Abisum. Abital . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABISUM.
ab'-i-sum. See ABISUE (Apocrypha). Abisue, Abisum. Abital . Reference Bible.
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