Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Jeremai is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Jeremai" appears in the context of the post-exilic period, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. This entry explores the historical and theological significance of Jeremai within the biblical narrative. Biblical References: Jeremai is mentioned in Nehemiah 10:5, where he is listed among the priests who sealed the covenant. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah, Daniel, Ginnethon, Baruch, Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin, Maaziah, Bilgai, and Shemaiah. These were the priests." Jeremai is included in this list, indicating his role as a priest during the time of Nehemiah. Historical Context: The book of Nehemiah is set during the period of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile, a time of rebuilding and reestablishing the religious and social structures of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, was instrumental in leading the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the covenantal faithfulness of the people. Role and Significance: Jeremai's inclusion among the priests who sealed the covenant signifies his active participation in the religious renewal of the Jewish community. The sealing of the covenant was a solemn act of commitment to uphold the laws and commandments given by God through Moses. As a priest, Jeremai would have been responsible for teaching the Law, leading worship, and offering sacrifices, playing a crucial role in guiding the people back to covenantal faithfulness. Theological Implications: The mention of Jeremai, though brief, underscores the importance of priestly leadership in the spiritual restoration of Israel. The priests were not only religious functionaries but also spiritual leaders who were expected to model and enforce adherence to God's commandments. Jeremai's participation in the covenant renewal highlights the collective responsibility of the community's leaders to ensure the people's fidelity to God. Linguistic Notes: The name "Jeremai" is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often associated with the root word "Yirmeyahu," which means "Yahweh will exalt" or "Yahweh has uplifted." This etymology reflects the theological theme of divine elevation and support, fitting for a priestly figure involved in the covenant renewal process. Conclusion: Jeremai's role as a priest during the time of Nehemiah, though mentioned only briefly, is significant in the context of the post-exilic restoration of Israel. His participation in the sealing of the covenant highlights the critical role of religious leaders in guiding the community back to faithfulness and obedience to God's Law. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Jeremaimy height; throwing forth waters Smith's Bible Dictionary Jeremai(dwelling in heights), a layman, one of the Bene-Hashum, who was compelled by Ezra to put away his foreign wife. (Ezra 10:33) (B.C. 459.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JEREMAIjer'-e-mi, jer-e-ma'-i (yeremay, meaning unknown): One of those who had married foreign wives (Ezra 10:33). Strong's Hebrew 3413. Yeremay -- an Israelite... 3412, 3413. Yeremay. 3414 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Yeremay Phonetic Spelling: (yer-ay-mah'-ee) Short Definition: Jeremai. ... NASB Word Usage Jeremai (1 ... /hebrew/3413.htm - 6k Thesaurus Jeremai (1 Occurrence)...JEREMAI. jer'-e-mi, jer-e-ma'-i (yeremay, meaning unknown): One of those who had married foreign wives (Ezra 10:33). ...Jeremai (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jeremai.htm - 7k Jer'emai (1 Occurrence) Zabad (8 Occurrences) Jeremias (3 Occurrences) Jered (2 Occurrences) Eliph'elet (8 Occurrences) Eliphelet (8 Occurrences) Mattathah (1 Occurrence) Mattattah (1 Occurrence) Matte'nai (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jeremai (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:33 Subtopics Jeremai of the Family of Hashum Related Terms |
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