Introduction:
Bavai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Nehemiah. He is recognized for his role in the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls during the post-exilic period. His mention, though brief, highlights the collaborative efforts of the Israelites in restoring their city and religious life after the Babylonian exile.

Biblical Reference:
Bavai is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:18. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Next to him, their fellow Levites carried out repairs under Bavai son of Henadad, ruler of the other half-district of Keilah."

Historical Context:
The Book of Nehemiah is set during the Persian period, after the decree of Cyrus allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem. Nehemiah, serving as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, was granted permission to lead the efforts in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, which had been in ruins since the Babylonian conquest.

Role and Significance:
Bavai, identified as the son of Henadad, was a leader among the Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service. His leadership in the reconstruction efforts underscores the involvement of religious leaders in civic and communal restoration. Bavai's work on the wall, specifically in the district of Keilah, reflects the organized and communal approach to the rebuilding project, with various groups and families taking responsibility for different sections.

Keilah:
Keilah was a town in the lowlands of Judah, known from earlier biblical narratives, such as David's rescue of the city from the Philistines (1 Samuel 23). The mention of Keilah in Nehemiah indicates its continued significance and the integration of its leaders in the broader efforts to restore Jerusalem.

Theological Implications:
Bavai's participation in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people and their land. The collective effort, including leaders like Bavai, symbolizes the unity and dedication of the Israelites to reestablish their covenant relationship with God. The involvement of the Levites, who were responsible for maintaining the spiritual life of Israel, highlights the intertwining of religious and communal life in the restoration process.

Conclusion:
While Bavai's mention in the Bible is brief, his role in the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls is a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of the post-exilic community. His leadership among the Levites and his connection to the district of Keilah reflect the organized and faithful efforts to restore the city and its religious practices, fulfilling God's promises to His people.Bavai

son of Henadad, ruler of the district of Keilah in the time of Nehemiah. (Nehemiah 3:18) (B.C. 446.)

BAVAI

bav'-a-i.

See BAVVAI.

942. Bavvai -- an Israelite
... NASB Word Usage Bavvai (1). Bavai. Probably of Persian origin; Bavvai, an Israelite
-- Bavai. 941, 942. Bavvai. 943 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/942.htm - 5kBavai (1 Occurrence)
...BAVAI. bav'-ai. ...Bavai (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 3:18 After him repaired their brethren,
Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah. (KJV WBS). ...
/b/bavai.htm - 6k

Bavvai (1 Occurrence)
... bav'-ai (bawway; Septuagint Codex Alexandrinus, Benei; Codex Vaticanus, Bedei; the
King James Version Bavai, "wisher" (?) (Nehemiah 3:18)): Perhaps identical ...
/b/bavvai.htm - 7k

Battling (1 Occurrence)

/b/battling.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus