Chosamaeus is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text known as 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and is recognized in the canon of certain Christian traditions, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church. However, Chosamaeus does not appear in the canonical books of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament.

Biblical Context

In 1 Esdras, Chosamaeus is listed among those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. This return is part of the larger narrative of the Jewish people’s restoration to their homeland following the decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, which allowed the exiles to return and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.

1 Esdras 5:8 mentions Chosamaeus in the context of the returning exiles: "The leaders of the people were Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. The number of the men of the people of Israel: the sons of Parosh, 2,172; the sons of Shephatiah, 372; the sons of Arah, 775; the sons of Pahath-moab, of the sons of Jeshua and Joab, 2,812; the sons of Elam, 1,254; the sons of Zattu, 945; the sons of Zaccai, 760; the sons of Bani, 642; the sons of Bebai, 623; the sons of Azgad, 1,222; the sons of Adonikam, 666; the sons of Bigvai, 2,056; the sons of Adin, 454; the sons of Ater, of Hezekiah, 98; the sons of Bezai, 323; the sons of Jorah, 112; the sons of Hashum, 223; the sons of Gibbar, 95; the sons of Bethlehem, 123; the men of Netophah, 56; the men of Anathoth, 128; the sons of Azmaveth, 42; the sons of Kiriath-arim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, 743; the sons of Ramah and Geba, 621; the men of Michmas, 122; the men of Bethel and Ai, 223; the sons of Nebo, 52; the sons of Magbish, 156; the sons of the other Elam, 1,254; the sons of Harim, 320; the sons of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, 725; the sons of Jericho, 345; the sons of Senaah, 3,630."

Historical and Theological Significance

The mention of Chosamaeus, though brief, is significant in the context of the Jewish return from exile, a pivotal event in Jewish history. This return marks the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the beginning of the restoration of the Jewish community in their ancestral land. Theologically, it underscores themes of redemption, divine faithfulness, and the importance of community in the worship and service of God.

The inclusion of Chosamaeus in the list of returnees highlights the collective effort and unity among the Israelites in re-establishing their religious and cultural identity. It also reflects the broader biblical narrative of God’s providence and the restoration of His people.

Textual Considerations

While 1 Esdras is not part of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant canon, it provides valuable historical insights and complements the accounts found in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The figure of Chosamaeus, though not prominent, contributes to the tapestry of names that represent the faithful remnant returning to Jerusalem.

Conclusion

Chosamaeus, as mentioned in 1 Esdras, serves as a testament to the collective journey of the Jewish people from exile to restoration. His inclusion in the list of returnees underscores the importance of each individual in the fulfillment of God’s promises and the re-establishment of the Jewish community in their homeland.CHOSAMAEUS

kos-a-me'-us (A, Simon Chosamaios; B, Chosamaos): Occurs in 1 Esdras 9:32 as the name of one of the sons of Annas. But in the parallel passage (Ezra 10:31) the name is simply Shimeon followed by "Benjamin, Malluch, Shemariah," which are omitted in 1 Esdras. The Septuagint of Ezra 10:31 has Semeon, followed by the three omitted names. The difference may have arisen from a mistake of a copyist, or from the use of an imperfect MS.

Chosamaeus
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHOSAMAEUS. kos-a-me'-us (A, Simon Chosamaios;
B, Chosamaos): Occurs in 1 Esdras 9:32 as the name of one of the sons of Annas. ...
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Choruses (3 Occurrences)

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Chose (59 Occurrences)

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