Topical Encyclopedia Gishpa is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is referenced in the Book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the community after the Babylonian exile. Gishpa is noted for his role in the administration of the temple servants, also known as the Nethinim.Biblical Reference: Gishpa is mentioned in Nehemiah 11:21: "The temple servants lived on the hill of Ophel, with Ziha and Gishpa over them." (Berean Standard Bible). This verse places Gishpa in a position of leadership or oversight among the temple servants, indicating his importance in the organizational structure of the post-exilic community. Historical and Cultural Context: The Nethinim, or temple servants, were a group of individuals assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. Their origins are somewhat obscure, but they are believed to have been non-Israelites who were integrated into the religious life of Israel, possibly as a result of conquest or as descendants of the Gibeonites who were assigned to serve in the temple (Joshua 9:27). During the time of Nehemiah, the Jewish community was focused on re-establishing religious practices and ensuring the proper functioning of the temple. Leaders like Gishpa played a crucial role in organizing and managing the temple personnel, which was essential for the restoration of worship and community life. Role and Significance: Gishpa's role as an overseer of the temple servants highlights the importance of administrative and leadership skills in the successful rebuilding of Jerusalem. His mention alongside Ziha suggests a shared responsibility in managing the affairs of the temple servants, ensuring that the necessary support for the Levites and priests was maintained. The inclusion of Gishpa in the biblical narrative underscores the collaborative effort required to restore the spiritual and communal life of the Jewish people after the exile. It reflects the broader theme of cooperation and dedication among the returned exiles to re-establish their identity and religious practices. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, Gishpa's role can be seen as part of God's providential plan to restore His people and their worship. The rebuilding of the temple and the reorganization of its services were vital for the renewal of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Leaders like Gishpa were instrumental in fulfilling God's promises to His people, demonstrating the importance of faithful service and stewardship in the life of the community. In summary, Gishpa's mention in the Book of Nehemiah, though brief, provides insight into the organizational efforts necessary for the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. His leadership among the temple servants reflects the collaborative spirit and dedication required to re-establish the worship and identity of the Jewish people in the post-exilic period. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GISHPAgish'-pa (the King James Version Gispa; gishpa'): An officer of the Nethinim (Nehemiah 11:21). A comparison with Ezra 2:43 makes it probable that he is to be identified with Hasupha, and quite possible that this word is a corruption of Hasupha. Strong's Hebrew 1658. Gishpa -- one of the Nethinim... 1657, 1658. Gishpa. 1659 . one of the Nethinim. Transliteration: Gishpa Phonetic Spelling: (ghish-paw') Short Definition: Gishpa. ... /hebrew/1658.htm - 5k Thesaurus Gishpa (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GISHPA. gish'-pa (the King James Version Gispa; gishpa'): An officer of the Nethinim (Nehemiah 11:21). ...Gishpa (1 Occurrence). ... /g/gishpa.htm - 7k Ziha (3 Occurrences) Gispa (1 Occurrence) Gir'zites (1 Occurrence) Ophel (6 Occurrences) Nethinim (16 Occurrences) Resources Who were the Nethinim? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gishpa (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 11:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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