Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Charea is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the apocryphal book of Susanna, which is part of the additions to the Book of Daniel. While not found in the canonical texts of the Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament, the account of Susanna is included in the Septuagint and the Catholic and Orthodox Bibles. Charea is a minor character in this narrative, which highlights themes of virtue, justice, and divine intervention. Biblical Context: The account of Susanna is set during the Babylonian Exile, a period when the Jewish people were living in Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem. The narrative is primarily concerned with Susanna, a beautiful and pious woman, who is falsely accused of adultery by two elders. The account unfolds with a dramatic courtroom scene where the young prophet Daniel intervenes to reveal the truth and vindicate Susanna. Role of Charea: Charea is one of the characters who appears in the narrative of Susanna. Although his role is not central to the main plot, he is part of the broader community involved in the events surrounding Susanna's trial. The account emphasizes the importance of community and the impact of individual actions on the collective well-being. Theological Themes: 1. Justice and Righteousness: The account of Susanna, including the involvement of characters like Charea, underscores the biblical theme of justice. It highlights the importance of standing for truth and righteousness, even when faced with false accusations and societal pressure. 2. Divine Intervention: The narrative demonstrates God's providence and intervention in human affairs. Through Daniel's wisdom, God ensures that justice prevails, serving as a reminder of His omniscience and care for His people. 3. Moral Integrity: The account serves as a moral lesson on the virtues of integrity and faithfulness. Susanna's steadfastness in the face of temptation and falsehood is a testament to her character, encouraging believers to uphold their values. Historical and Cultural Significance: The inclusion of the account of Susanna in the Septuagint and its acceptance in certain Christian traditions reflect its historical and cultural significance. It provides insight into the Jewish diaspora's experiences and the challenges they faced in maintaining their identity and faith in a foreign land. Literary Aspects: The narrative of Susanna, including the role of Charea, is rich in literary elements. It employs dramatic tension, character development, and a resolution that reinforces the moral and theological messages. The story's structure and style contribute to its enduring appeal and its ability to convey profound truths. Conclusion: While Charea's role in the account of Susanna is not extensively detailed, his presence contributes to the narrative's exploration of justice, community, and divine intervention. The account remains a powerful testament to the enduring values of faith, integrity, and the pursuit of truth. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHAREAkar'-re-a (Charea): Head of a family of temple-servants (1 Esdras 5:32); called "Harsha" in Ezra 2:52 Nehemiah 7:54. Thesaurus Charea... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHAREA. kar'-re-a (Charea): Head of a family of temple-servants (1 Esdras 5:32); called "Harsha" in Ezra 2:52 Nehemiah 7:54. ... /c/charea.htm - 6k Charcoal (3 Occurrences) Charge (379 Occurrences) Harsha (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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