Topical Encyclopedia Ahasai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. He is identified as one of the priests who returned to Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. The name Ahasai is believed to mean "Yahweh has taken" or "Yahweh has grasped," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names, which often include a reference to God.Biblical Reference: Ahasai is mentioned in Nehemiah 11:13, which provides a list of the priests who resettled in Jerusalem after the return from exile. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "and his associates—heads of families—1,242 in all. Amashsai son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth, the son of Immer." In this context, Ahasai is referred to as Ahzai, which is a variant of the name. This passage is part of a larger section detailing the repopulation of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of its religious and civic life. The priests, including Ahasai, played a crucial role in restoring the worship and religious practices of the Israelites, which had been disrupted during the exile. Historical and Religious Context: The return from Babylonian exile was a significant event in Jewish history, marking the beginning of the Second Temple period. Under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish community focused on rebuilding the temple, reestablishing the Law, and restoring the religious and social order according to the covenant with God. Priests like Ahasai were essential in this process, as they were responsible for conducting sacrifices, teaching the Law, and maintaining the purity of worship. Their genealogies were carefully preserved to ensure the legitimacy of their priestly duties, as seen in the detailed records found in books like Nehemiah and Chronicles. Theological Significance: The mention of Ahasai, though brief, underscores the importance of continuity and faithfulness in the priestly line. The priests served as mediators between God and the people, and their role was vital in maintaining the covenant relationship. Ahasai's inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the emphasis on heritage and the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple were seen as acts of divine providence, fulfilling the prophetic words spoken by Jeremiah and others about the restoration of Israel. The priests, including Ahasai, were instrumental in this divine plan, ensuring that the worship of Yahweh was central to the life of the restored community. Conclusion: While Ahasai is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his role as a priest during the post-exilic period is a testament to the faithfulness of God's people in reestablishing their religious identity. His presence in the genealogical records of Nehemiah serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the priesthood and its critical function in the spiritual life of Israel. Smith's Bible Dictionary Ahasai(whom Jehovah holds), a priest, ancestor of Maasiai, (Nehemiah 11:13) called JAHZERAH in (1 Chronicles 9:12) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AHASAIa'-ha-si, a-ha'-si. See AHZAI. Strong's Hebrew 273. Achzay -- "Yah has grasped," an Israelite name... name NASB Word Usage Ahzai (1). Ahasai. From 'achaz; seizer; Achzai, an Israelite -- Ahasai. see HEBREW 'achaz. 272, 273. Achzay. 274 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/273.htm - 6k Thesaurus Ahasai... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AHASAI. a'-ha-si, a-ha'-si. See AHZAI. ... /a/ahasai.htm - 6k Ahasbai (1 Occurrence) Ahar'hel (1 Occurrence) Azareel (6 Occurrences) Amashai (1 Occurrence) Ahzai (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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