Topical Encyclopedia Ezerias is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and the Apocrypha of the Old Testament. While not found in the canonical books of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament, Ezerias is a part of the narrative that parallels the events described in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah.Biblical Context In 1 Esdras, Ezerias is listed among the leaders who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. This return is a significant event in Jewish history, marking the end of the Babylonian captivity and the beginning of the restoration of the Jewish community and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. 1 Esdras 8:2-3 mentions Ezerias in the context of the genealogy of those who returned: "This is the list of the leaders and their genealogy who came up with me from Babylon during the reign of King Artaxerxes: of the descendants of Phinehas, Gershom; of Ithamar, Daniel; of David, Hattush; of the descendants of Shecaniah, of the descendants of Parosh, Zechariah, and with him were registered 150 men." Role and Significance Ezerias is identified as one of the leaders among the returning exiles, suggesting a position of authority and respect within the community. His inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the post-exilic restoration period. The returnees were tasked with the significant responsibility of re-establishing the religious and social structures of the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland. The mention of Ezerias, along with other leaders, highlights the collaborative effort required to undertake the monumental task of rebuilding the Temple and restoring the worship practices that had been disrupted during the exile. This period was marked by a renewed commitment to the covenant and the laws given to Moses, as the returning exiles sought to re-align themselves with their religious identity and heritage. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the return from exile and the rebuilding of the Temple are seen as acts of divine providence and fulfillment of prophecy. The involvement of leaders like Ezerias in this process is viewed as part of God's plan to restore His people and re-establish His presence among them. The narrative of return and restoration serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience to His commandments. While Ezerias is not a prominent figure in the broader biblical narrative, his role in the return from exile contributes to the overarching theme of redemption and restoration that runs throughout Scripture. His inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Esdras serves as a testament to the continuity of God's covenant people and the enduring significance of their mission to uphold the faith and traditions of their ancestors. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EZERIASez-e-ri'-as (Ezerias): Thesaurus Ezerias...EZERIAS. ez-e-ri'-as (Ezerias): APC 1Esdras 8:1 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "Zechrias," the Azariah of Ezra 7:1. ... /e/ezerias.htm - 6k Zechrias Ezer (10 Occurrences) Ezias Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |