Overview:
Be'bai is a biblical figure and the name of a family or clan mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile. The descendants of Be'bai are noted for their participation in the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple. The name Be'bai appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the efforts of the Jewish people to reestablish their community and religious practices after the period of captivity.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:11 · "the descendants of Bebai, 623."
· This verse is part of a list enumerating the families and their numbers who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylon under the leadership of Zerubbabel. The descendants of Be'bai numbered 623, indicating a significant family group committed to the restoration efforts.

2. Ezra 8:11 · "and of the descendants of Bebai, Zechariah, and with him 28 men."
· In this passage, Ezra records the names and numbers of those who accompanied him on a later return to Jerusalem. Zechariah, a leader among the descendants of Be'bai, is mentioned along with 28 men, highlighting their continued involvement in the community's spiritual and physical rebuilding.

3. Nehemiah 7:16 · "the descendants of Bebai, 628."
· This verse mirrors the account in Ezra, listing the descendants of Be'bai among those who returned. The slight numerical difference from Ezra 2:11 may reflect a recount or additional family members joining the return.

4. Nehemiah 10:15 · "Bebai, Magpiash, Meshullam,"
· Be'bai is listed among those who sealed the covenant in Nehemiah's time, committing to follow the Law of God and support the Temple service. This act signifies the family's dedication to the spiritual renewal of the nation.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The descendants of Be'bai played a crucial role in the post-exilic period, a time marked by the Jewish community's efforts to reestablish their identity and religious practices. Their participation in the return to Jerusalem and the covenant renewal underscores their commitment to God's covenant and the restoration of Israel's religious life.

The mention of Be'bai in the context of the covenant renewal in Nehemiah 10 highlights the importance of communal responsibility and faithfulness to God's commandments. The sealing of the covenant was a public declaration of allegiance to God and a commitment to uphold the Mosaic Law, which was central to the identity and survival of the Jewish people.

Cultural Context:

The return from Babylonian exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marked by the challenges of rebuilding a devastated city and reestablishing religious practices. Families like the descendants of Be'bai were instrumental in this process, providing manpower, leadership, and spiritual dedication. Their involvement reflects the broader theme of restoration and renewal that characterizes the post-exilic books of the Bible.

Conclusion:

The descendants of Be'bai exemplify the faithfulness and dedication required to rebuild a community centered on God's laws and promises. Their account is a testament to the enduring commitment of the Jewish people to their covenant relationship with God, even in the face of adversity and displacement.Be'bai (5 Occurrences)

Ezra 2:11
The children of Bebai, six hundred twenty-three.
(See RSV)

Ezra 8:11
Of the sons of Bebai, Zechariah the son of Bebai; and with him twenty-eight males.
(See RSV)

Ezra 10:28
Of the sons of Bebai: Jehohanan, Hananiah, Zabbai, Athlai.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:16
The children of Bebai, six hundred twenty-eight.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 10:15
Bunni, Azgad, Bebai,
(See RSV)

Be'bai (5 Occurrences)
Be'bai. Bebai, Be'bai. Became . Multi-Version Concordance Be'bai (5 Occurrences).
Ezra 2:11 The children of Bebai, six hundred twenty-three. (See RSV). ...
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Bebai (3 Occurrences)

/b/bebai.htm - 8k

Became (2688 Occurrences)

/b/became.htm - 6k

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