The Apharesites are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites were returning from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. The reference to the Apharesites is found in the book of Ezra, which details the challenges and opposition faced by the returning exiles.

Biblical Reference:

The Apharesites are mentioned in Ezra 4:9, where they are listed among the peoples who opposed the rebuilding efforts of the Israelites. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads:

"From Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates—the judges and officials over Tripolis, Persia, Erech, Babylon, Susa (that is, the Elamites), and the rest of the peoples whom the great and honorable Ashurbanipal deported and settled in the city of Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates." (Ezra 4:9)

In this passage, the Apharesites are grouped with other peoples who were settled in the region by the Assyrian king Ashurbanipal. These groups were likely part of the Assyrian policy of resettling conquered peoples to prevent rebellion and to integrate the empire.

Historical Context:

The Apharesites, along with other groups mentioned in Ezra 4, were part of the mixed population that inhabited the land of Samaria and its surroundings after the Northern Kingdom of Israel was conquered by the Assyrians in 722 BC. The Assyrians had a practice of deporting local populations and resettling them with people from other parts of their empire, which led to a diverse and often contentious mix of cultures and religions.

During the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, the returning Jewish exiles faced opposition from these groups, who were concerned about the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in the region. The Apharesites, as part of this opposition, were likely motivated by political and economic interests, fearing the loss of influence and control over the land.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Apharesites and other opposing groups highlights the challenges faced by the Israelites in fulfilling God's command to rebuild the Temple and restore proper worship in Jerusalem. This opposition serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare and perseverance required to accomplish God's purposes.

The narrative in Ezra underscores the faithfulness of God in protecting and enabling His people to overcome obstacles. Despite the resistance from the Apharesites and others, the rebuilding of the Temple was completed, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.

Cultural and Religious Implications:

The presence of the Apharesites and similar groups in the land contributed to the complex cultural and religious landscape of the region. The intermingling of different peoples and beliefs posed a significant challenge to the returning exiles, who were committed to maintaining the purity of their worship and adherence to the Law of Moses.

The opposition from the Apharesites can be seen as part of the broader struggle between the worship of Yahweh and the syncretistic practices that had developed in the region. The efforts to rebuild the Temple and re-establish the covenant community were central to the identity and mission of the Jewish people, as they sought to be a light to the nations and a testimony to the one true God.

In summary, the Apharesites represent one of the many groups that played a role in the historical and spiritual challenges faced by the Israelites during the post-exilic period. Their mention in the book of Ezra serves as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of God's people in the face of opposition.Apharesites (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 4:9
then wrote Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions, the Dinaites, and the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehaites, the Elamites,
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Apharesites (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Apharesites (1 Occurrence). Ezra 4:9 then wrote
Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the ...
/a/apharesites.htm - 6k

Apharsachites (2 Occurrences)

/a/apharsachites.htm - 8k

Apharesattechites (1 Occurrence)

/a/apharesattechites.htm - 6k

Shim'shai (4 Occurrences)
... commander, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions; the Dinites,
and the Apharesattechites, the Tarpelites, the Apharesites, the Archevites ...
/s/shim'shai.htm - 7k

Commanding (79 Occurrences)
... commander, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions; the Dinites,
and the Apharesattechites, the Tarpelites, the Apharesites, the Archevites ...
/c/commanding.htm - 31k

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