Hatipha is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity. The name appears in the lists of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:54 : "the descendants of Neziah, the descendants of Hatipha."
2. Nehemiah 7:56 : "the descendants of Neziah, the descendants of Hatipha."

In both Ezra and Nehemiah, the name Hatipha is listed among the Nethinim who returned to Jerusalem and Judah with Zerubbabel. The Nethinim were a distinct group within the Israelite community, originally appointed by King David and the leaders of Israel for service in the house of the Lord (see 1 Chronicles 9:2). Their role was crucial in maintaining the daily operations and rituals of the temple, although they were not of Levitical descent.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The return from Babylonian exile marked a significant period of restoration and rebuilding for the Jewish people. The inclusion of the Nethinim, including the descendants of Hatipha, in the lists of returnees underscores the importance of re-establishing proper worship and temple service. The Nethinim, though not priests, played a vital role in the religious life of the community, ensuring that the temple functioned smoothly.

The mention of Hatipha in both Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the continuity and consistency of the records concerning the returnees. This consistency is significant for understanding the historical reliability of the biblical texts and the careful documentation of those who participated in the restoration efforts.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Nethinim, such as the descendants of Hatipha, in the post-exilic community reflects the inclusive nature of God's covenant people. While the Nethinim were not originally part of the Israelite tribes, their dedication to temple service allowed them to be integrated into the community of faith. This serves as a reminder of the diverse ways in which individuals can contribute to the worship and service of God, regardless of their background.

The restoration of the temple and its services was a fulfillment of God's promises to bring His people back to their land and re-establish His presence among them. The descendants of Hatipha, along with other Nethinim, played a part in this divine plan, highlighting the importance of every member's role in the community of believers.

Conclusion:

The name Hatipha, though mentioned briefly in the biblical text, represents a group of individuals who were integral to the re-establishment of temple worship in Jerusalem. Their inclusion in the lists of returnees underscores the importance of service and dedication in the life of the covenant community.Hatipha

(captive). Bene-Hatipha (i.e. sons of Hatipha) were among the Nethinim who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:54; Nehemiah 7:56) (B.C. 536.)

Captured, one of the Nethinim (Ezra 2:54). HATIPHA

ha-ti'-fa, hat'-i-fa (chaTipha', "taken," "captive" (?)): The ancestral head of a family of Nethinim that returned from Babylon (Ezra 2:54 Nehemiah 7:56 = "Atipha," APC 1Esdras 5:32).

2412. Chatipha -- one of the Nethinim
... 2411, 2412. Chatipha. 2413 . one of the Nethinim. Transliteration: Chatipha
Phonetic Spelling: (khat-ee-faw') Short Definition: Hatipha. ... Hatipha. ...
/hebrew/2412.htm - 6kHatipha (2 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HATIPHA. ... Multi-Version Concordance Hatipha (2
Occurrences). Ezra 2:54 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. ...
/h/hatipha.htm - 7k

Hati'pha (2 Occurrences)
Hati'pha. Hatipha, Hati'pha. Hatita . Multi-Version Concordance Hati'pha (2
Occurrences). Ezra 2:54 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. (See RSV ...
/h/hati'pha.htm - 6k

Neziah (2 Occurrences)
... Neziah (2 Occurrences). Ezra 2:54 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. ...
Nehemiah 7:56 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. ...
/n/neziah.htm - 7k

Nezi'ah (2 Occurrences)
... Nezi'ah (2 Occurrences). Ezra 2:54 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha.
(See RSV). Nehemiah 7:56 the children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. ...
/n/nezi'ah.htm - 6k

Hating (95 Occurrences)

/h/hating.htm - 33k

Atipha
Atipha. Athletics, Atipha. Atom . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ATIPHA.
at'i-fa. See HATIPHA. Athletics, Atipha. Atom . Reference Bible.
/a/atipha.htm - 6k

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