Topical Encyclopedia Gabrias is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal book of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and is recognized in certain Christian traditions, though it is not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament. The name Gabrias appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a significant event in Jewish history that is also detailed in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah.Historical Context The return from Babylonian exile occurred after the decree of Cyrus the Great, the Persian king, who allowed the Jewish people to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. This period marks a pivotal moment in Jewish history, as it signifies the end of the Babylonian Captivity and the beginning of the Second Temple period. Role in 1 Esdras In 1 Esdras, Gabrias is listed among those who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel, a leader of the Jewish community during the return. The text of 1 Esdras 5:8-10 provides a list of the leaders and the numbers of those who returned: "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 descendants of Parosh, 2,172; the descendants of Shephatiah, 372; the descendants of Arah, 775." While Gabrias is not explicitly mentioned in this particular passage, his inclusion in the broader narrative of 1 Esdras highlights the collective effort of the Jewish people to restore their religious and cultural identity after years of exile. Theological Significance The mention of figures like Gabrias in the context of the return from exile underscores the themes of restoration and faithfulness. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple are seen as acts of divine providence, fulfilling the promises made by God through the prophets. This event is a testament to God's faithfulness to His covenant people, despite their previous disobedience and the resulting exile. Comparison with Canonical Texts While 1 Esdras is not part of the Protestant canon, it parallels the accounts found in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These canonical texts provide a more detailed account of the return and the challenges faced by the Jewish community, including opposition from surrounding peoples and the need for spiritual and social reforms. Gabrias in Tradition In Christian tradition, the inclusion of figures like Gabrias in the narrative of the return from exile serves as a reminder of the importance of community and leadership in the fulfillment of God's purposes. The collective effort to rebuild the Temple and restore worship in Jerusalem is seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate restoration brought about through Jesus Christ, who is viewed as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. Conclusion The figure of Gabrias, though not prominent in the biblical canon, represents the many individuals who played a role in the significant historical and theological event of the return from Babylonian exile. His mention in 1 Esdras contributes to the broader narrative of God's redemptive work in history, as seen through the restoration of His people and the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GABRIASga'-bri-as (Gabrias): Brother of GABAEL (which see). Library A Letter from Origen to Africanus. Thesaurus Gabrias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GABRIAS. ga'-bri-as (Gabrias): Brother of GABAEL (which see). In APC Tobit 4:20 he is described as his father. ... /g/gabrias.htm - 6k Gabriel (5 Occurrences) Gabbe Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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