Etymology and Meaning: The name "Jaasai" is of Hebrew origin, and it is believed to mean "whom Jehovah made" or "Jehovah supports." This reflects the common biblical theme of divine support and providence.

Biblical References: Jaasai is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the genealogical records of the post-exilic community. The reference to Jaasai can be found in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Scriptural Context: In the book of Ezra, Jaasai is listed among the descendants of Bani. The relevant passage is found in Ezra 10:37, where it states: "And among the descendants of Bani: Maadai, Amram, Uel, Benaiah, Bedeliah, Cheluhu, Vaniah, Meremoth, Eliashib, Mattaniah, Jaasai, Shimei, Shelemiah, Nathan, Adaiah, Machnadebai, Shashai, Sharai, Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah, Shallum, Amariah, and Joseph."

Historical and Theological Significance: The mention of Jaasai occurs in the context of a significant religious reform led by Ezra. This reform was aimed at restoring the covenantal faithfulness of the Israelites by addressing the issue of intermarriage with foreign women, which was seen as a threat to the purity of the Israelite community and their distinct identity as God's chosen people. The list in which Jaasai appears is part of a record of those who had taken foreign wives and were called to put them away in order to renew their commitment to the Lord.

Cultural and Religious Implications: The inclusion of Jaasai in this list highlights the importance of genealogical records in the post-exilic period. These records were not only a means of preserving family lineage but also served as a testament to the community's dedication to upholding the laws and commandments given by God. The act of putting away foreign wives, as difficult as it may have been, was seen as a necessary step to ensure the spiritual integrity and continuity of the Israelite nation.

Lessons and Reflections: The account of Jaasai and others in Ezra 10 serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenant relationship with God amidst external influences. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the willingness to make difficult decisions for the sake of spiritual fidelity. This narrative invites reflection on the nature of commitment to God's will and the sacrifices that may be required to uphold one's faith.

Related Entries: For further study, see entries on Ezra, Bani, Post-Exilic Period, Intermarriage in Israel, and Genealogies in the Bible.JAASAI; JAASAU

ja'-a-si, ja'-a-so.

See JAASU.

Jaasai (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JAASAI; JAASAU. ja'-a-si, ja'-a-so. See JAASU. ...Jaasai
(1 Occurrence). Ezra 10:37 Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasai, (DBY JPS). ...
/j/jaasai.htm - 6k

Jaasau (1 Occurrence)
... Septuagint translates the consonantal text as a verb, kai epoiesan, "and they did."
1 Esdras 9:34 has "Eliasis.". JAASAI; JAASAU. ja'-a-si, ja'-a-so. See JAASU. ...
/j/jaasau.htm - 7k

Ja-areshi'ah (1 Occurrence)
Ja-areshi'ah. Jaareshiah, Ja-areshi'ah. Jaasai . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See RSV). Jaareshiah, Ja-areshi'ah. Jaasai . Reference Bible.
/j/ja-areshi'ah.htm - 6k

Matte'nai (3 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). Ezra 10:37 Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasai; (See RSV). Nehemiah
12:19 and of Joiarib, Mattenai; of Jedaiah, Uzzi; (See RSV). ...
/m/matte'nai.htm - 6k

Mattani'ah (16 Occurrences)
... Bezalel, and Binnui, and Manasseh. (See RSV). Ezra 10:37 Mattaniah, Mattenai,
and Jaasai; (See RSV). Nehemiah 11:17 and Mattaniah ...
/m/mattani'ah.htm - 10k

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