Topical Encyclopedia Bigva'i is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. His name appears in the post-exilic period, specifically in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the efforts to rebuild the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem, as well as the re-establishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral homeland.Biblical References: 1. Ezra 2:2, 14 · Bigva'i is listed among the leaders of the people who returned with Zerubbabel. The passage states: "These came with Zerubbabel: Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. The number of the men of the people of Israel: ... the descendants of Bigvai, 2,056." . This indicates that Bigva'i was a leader of a significant group of returnees, numbering 2,056, which underscores his importance in the restoration community. 2. Nehemiah 7:7, 19 · The book of Nehemiah provides a parallel account to that of Ezra, listing Bigva'i among the leaders who returned with Zerubbabel. The text reads: "They came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispereth, Bigvai, Nehum, and Baanah. The number of the men of the people of Israel: ... the descendants of Bigvai, 2,067." . The slight numerical discrepancy between Ezra and Nehemiah may reflect different stages of the return or variations in record-keeping. 3. Ezra 8:14 · Bigva'i is again mentioned in the context of a later group of returnees led by Ezra. The passage notes: "From the descendants of Bigvai, Uthai and Zaccur, and with them 70 men." . This indicates that members of Bigva'i's family continued to play a role in the return and rebuilding efforts, contributing to the community's spiritual and physical restoration. Historical and Theological Context: Bigva'i's mention in the lists of returnees highlights the collective effort of the Jewish people to restore their religious and national identity after the Babylonian exile. The return under Zerubbabel, and later under Ezra and Nehemiah, was a fulfillment of God's promises to bring His people back to the land He had given to their ancestors. Bigva'i's leadership role signifies the importance of family heads and tribal leaders in organizing and mobilizing the people for this monumental task. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a demonstration of God's faithfulness and mercy. Despite the people's previous disobedience, which led to their exile, God remained committed to His covenant with Israel. The inclusion of Bigva'i and others in the biblical record serves as a testament to the diverse and communal nature of God's redemptive work, involving various families and individuals in the unfolding of His divine plan. Name Meaning and Significance: The name Bigva'i is of uncertain origin and meaning, though some scholars suggest it may be of Persian or Babylonian derivation, reflecting the cultural influences during the exile. The presence of such names in the post-exilic community illustrates the historical context of the Jewish people, who had lived in a foreign land for several generations and were now returning to re-establish their distinct identity as God's chosen people. In summary, Bigva'i is a notable figure in the biblical narrative of the return from exile, representing the leadership and commitment required to rebuild the Jewish community in Jerusalem. His inclusion in the genealogical and census records underscores the importance of each family and individual in the collective mission to restore the worship and practices central to the Jewish faith. Concordance Bigva'i (6 Occurrences)Ezra 2:2 Ezra 2:14 Ezra 8:14 Nehemiah 7:7 Nehemiah 7:19 Nehemiah 10:16 Thesaurus Bigva'i (6 Occurrences)Bigva'i. Bigvai, Bigva'i. Bikat-aven . Multi-Version Concordance Bigva'i (6 Occurrences). Ezra 2:2 who came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua ... /b/bigva'i.htm - 7k Bikat-aven (1 Occurrence) Bigvai (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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