Cheluhi is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name appears in the context of the post-exilic community, specifically within the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name Cheluhi is found in the book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the community of Israel after the Babylonian captivity.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Cheluhi is found in Nehemiah 10:10, where he is listed among the priests who sealed the covenant. The passage reads: "And their brothers: Shebaniah, Hodiah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan, Mica, Rehob, Hashabiah, Zaccur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah, Hodiah, Bani, and Beninu." (Nehemiah 10:9-10). Cheluhi is included in this list, indicating his role as a priest and his participation in the covenant renewal ceremony.

Historical and Religious Context:

The book of Nehemiah is set during the period of the Persian Empire, following the decree of Cyrus the Great that allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, was granted permission to lead the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the community's religious and social structures.

The sealing of the covenant, in which Cheluhi participated, was a significant event in the re-establishment of the Jewish community's commitment to the Mosaic Law. This covenant renewal was a public declaration of the people's dedication to follow God's commandments and to separate themselves from the surrounding nations' practices.

Role and Significance:

Cheluhi's inclusion in the list of priests who sealed the covenant highlights his role as a spiritual leader within the post-exilic community. As a priest, Cheluhi would have been responsible for performing religious duties, teaching the Law, and guiding the people in their worship of Yahweh. His participation in the covenant ceremony underscores the importance of the priesthood in maintaining the religious identity and purity of the Israelite community.

The mention of Cheluhi, though brief, serves as a reminder of the many individuals who played crucial roles in the restoration of Israel after the exile. These leaders, though not always prominent in the biblical narrative, contributed to the spiritual and communal renewal of the Jewish people during a pivotal time in their history.

Etymology and Name Significance:

The name Cheluhi is of Hebrew origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively known. Like many biblical names, it may carry a theophoric element, reflecting a connection to God or a divine attribute. The presence of such names in the genealogical records often signifies the individual's heritage and their family's devotion to Yahweh.

Conclusion:

Cheluhi's mention in the book of Nehemiah, though limited to a genealogical list, provides insight into the structure and leadership of the post-exilic Jewish community. His role as a priest and participant in the covenant renewal underscores the importance of religious leaders in guiding the people back to faithfulness and obedience to God's Law.Chel'uhi (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 10:35
Benaiah, Bedeiah, Cheluhu;
(See RSV)

Chel'uhi (1 Occurrence)
Chel'uhi. Cheluhi, Chel'uhi. Cheluhu . Multi-Version Concordance Chel'uhi
(1 Occurrence). Ezra 10:35 Benaiah, Bedeiah, Cheluhu; (See RSV). ...
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Cheluhi (1 Occurrence)

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Cheluhu (1 Occurrence)

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