Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Harsha is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity. The name Harsha appears in the book of Ezra, which details the efforts to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem and reestablish the community of Israel after their return from exile.Biblical Reference: Harsha is mentioned in Ezra 2:51 and its parallel passage in Nehemiah 7:53. These verses are part of a genealogical list that records the names of the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylon. The Berean Standard Bible renders the passage as follows: · Ezra 2:51 : "the descendants of Bakbuk, the descendants of Hakupha, the descendants of Harhur," · Nehemiah 7:53 : "the descendants of Bakbuk, the descendants of Hakupha, the descendants of Harhur," In these passages, Harsha is listed among the "temple servants" or "Nethinim," a group of individuals who were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the Temple. The Nethinim were likely descendants of the Gibeonites, who were assigned to serve the Israelites after they made a covenant with Joshua (Joshua 9:27). Historical and Cultural Context: The return from Babylonian exile was a significant event in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. The lists in Ezra and Nehemiah serve to document the continuity of the Israelite community and their dedication to reestablishing proper worship and societal order according to the Law of Moses. The mention of Harsha and other temple servants highlights the importance of maintaining the religious and cultural practices that defined the Israelite identity. The temple servants played a crucial role in supporting the Levites, who were responsible for the spiritual leadership and rituals of the community. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Harsha in the genealogical records underscores the theme of restoration and faithfulness. Despite the challenges of exile and the daunting task of rebuilding, the Israelites remained committed to their covenant relationship with God. The detailed records of those who returned emphasize God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to His people. The role of the Nethinim, including Harsha, also reflects the inclusive nature of God's plan, as individuals from various backgrounds were integrated into the service of the Temple. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation of the Gospel being extended to all nations, inviting all people to participate in the worship and service of God. Conclusion: While Harsha is a relatively obscure figure, his mention in the biblical record serves as a testament to the faithfulness and dedication of those who participated in the restoration of Israel. The genealogical lists in Ezra and Nehemiah, including the descendants of Harsha, remind us of the importance of every individual's contribution to the fulfillment of God's purposes. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HarshaSmith's Bible Dictionary Harsha(deaf). Bene-Harsha were among the families of Nethinim who came back from Babylon with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:52; Nehemiah 7:54) Easton's Bible Dictionary Worker or enchanter, one of the Nethinim (Ezra 2:52; Nehemiah 7:54). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HARSHAhar'-sha (charsha'): Head of one of the families of the Nethinim (Ezra 2:52 Nehemiah 7:54); 1 Esdras 5:32, "Charea." Strong's Hebrew 2797. Charsha -- an Israelite... 2796, 2797. Charsha. 2798 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Charsha Phonetic Spelling: (khar-shaw') Short Definition: Harsha. ... NASB Word Usage Harsha (2). Harsha ... /hebrew/2797.htm - 6k 8521. Tel Charsha -- "mound of a craftsman," a city in Babylon Library Letter H Thesaurus Tel-harsha (2 Occurrences)Tel-harsha. Telharsha, Tel-harsha. Tel-har'sha . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TEL-HARSHA. tel-har'-sha (tel-charsha ... /t/tel-harsha.htm - 7k Tel-melah (2 Occurrences) Kerub (2 Occurrences) Immer (10 Occurrences) Tel-har'sha (2 Occurrences) Telmelah (2 Occurrences) Telharsha Tel (5 Occurrences) Mehida (2 Occurrences) Mehi'da (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Harsha (4 Occurrences)Ezra 2:52 Ezra 2:59 Nehemiah 7:54 Nehemiah 7:61 Subtopics Related Terms |
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