Balnuus is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and the Apocrypha of the King James Bible. While not found in the canonical books of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament, Balnuus is part of the narrative concerning the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Context

In 1 Esdras 5:31, Balnuus is listed among the leaders of the families who returned from the Babylonian exile under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. The text states: "The sons of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, 725; the sons of Jericho, 345; the sons of Senaah, 3,330." Balnuus is mentioned in the context of these genealogical records, which parallel the accounts found in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah. However, the name Balnuus does not appear in the corresponding lists in the canonical texts, suggesting a variation in the transmission of these records.

Historical and Theological Significance

The mention of Balnuus in 1 Esdras highlights the importance of genealogical records in the post-exilic community. These records served to establish the continuity of the Jewish people and their rightful claim to the land and religious heritage of their ancestors. The return from exile and the rebuilding of the Temple were seen as acts of divine restoration and fulfillment of prophecy, as articulated in the canonical books of Isaiah and Jeremiah.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of figures like Balnuus in the genealogical lists underscores the collective effort and unity required to rebuild the community and restore proper worship in Jerusalem. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, even after periods of judgment and exile.

Textual Considerations

The presence of Balnuus in 1 Esdras but not in the canonical books raises questions about the textual variations and the historical reliability of these records. Conservative scholars often view the canonical texts of Ezra and Nehemiah as more authoritative, given their inclusion in the Hebrew Bible. However, 1 Esdras provides additional context and insight into the post-exilic period, offering a complementary perspective on the events described in the canonical books.

Conclusion

While Balnuus is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in 1 Esdras contributes to the understanding of the post-exilic community's efforts to reestablish their identity and religious practices. The genealogical records, including those with variations like the mention of Balnuus, serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jewish people and their covenant relationship with God.BALNUUS

bal-nu'-us (Codex Alexandrinus, Balnouos; Codex Vaticanus, Balnous = Binnui (Ezra 10:30)): Balnuus put away his "strange wife" (1 Esdras 9:31).

Balnuus
...BALNUUS. bal-nu'-us (Codex Alexandrinus, Balnouos; Codex Vaticanus, Balnous = Binnui
(Ezra 10:30)): Balnuus put away his "strange wife" (1 Esdras 9:31). ...
/b/balnuus.htm - 6k

Balsam (10 Occurrences)

/b/balsam.htm - 10k

Balm (7 Occurrences)

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Binnui (7 Occurrences)
... living in the time of Ezra (Ezra 8:33 Nehemiah 10:9; Nehemiah 12:8). (2) One of
the bene Pachath-mo'abh who had taken foreign wives (Ezra 10:30 -Balnuus of 1 ...
/b/binnui.htm - 10k

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