Topical Encyclopedia Maadai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Ezra. He is identified as one of the sons of Bani who had taken foreign wives during the period of the Jewish return from the Babylonian exile. This event is part of a larger narrative concerning the restoration of Israel and the re-establishment of religious and social order according to the Mosaic Law.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Maadai is found in Ezra 10:34. The context of this passage is the reform led by Ezra, a scribe and priest, who was deeply concerned about the Israelites' intermarriage with foreign women, which was seen as a violation of the covenantal laws given to the people of Israel. The text reads: "From the descendants of Bani: Maadai, Amram, Uel," (Ezra 10:34). This verse is part of a list of individuals who had married foreign women and were called to put away these wives in order to purify the community and adhere to the covenant with Yahweh. Historical and Cultural Context: The return from exile was a significant period in Jewish history, marked by efforts to restore religious practices and community identity. The issue of intermarriage was particularly sensitive, as it was believed to lead to idolatry and a dilution of the distinctiveness of the Israelite faith. Ezra's reforms were aimed at re-establishing the Law of Moses as the foundation of Jewish life and ensuring the community's faithfulness to God. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the account of Maadai and others who took foreign wives highlights the importance of covenant fidelity in the Old Testament. The narrative underscores the belief that the Israelites were to remain a distinct people, set apart for God's purposes. This separation was not merely ethnic but was deeply rooted in religious and spiritual identity. The actions taken by Ezra and the response of individuals like Maadai reflect a commitment to repentance and obedience to God's commands. This episode serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the post-exilic community in maintaining their identity and faithfulness amidst external influences. Lessons and Applications: The account of Maadai can be seen as a call to faithfulness and purity in the life of believers. It emphasizes the need for discernment in relationships and the importance of aligning one's life with God's will. For contemporary readers, this account encourages a reflection on the influences that may lead one away from a committed relationship with God and the community of faith. In summary, Maadai's mention in the Book of Ezra, though brief, is part of a larger narrative that speaks to the themes of repentance, covenant loyalty, and the pursuit of holiness in the life of God's people. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MaadaiInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAADAIma-a-da'-i, ma'-a-di (ma`adhay): Son of Bani; one of those who married foreign wives (Ezra 10:34). Strong's Hebrew 4572. Maaday -- an Israelite... Maaday. 4573 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Maaday Phonetic Spelling: (mah-ad-ah'-ee) Short Definition: Maadai. ... NASB Word Usage Maadai (1). Maadai. ... /hebrew/4572.htm - 6k Thesaurus Maadai (1 Occurrence)...MAADAI. ma-a-da'-i, ma'-a-di (ma`adhay): Son of Bani; one of those who married foreign wives (Ezra 10:34). Multi-Version Concordance Maadai (1 Occurrence). ... /m/maadai.htm - 6k Ma-ada'i (1 Occurrence) Uel (1 Occurrence) Maachathites (4 Occurrences) Momdis Bani (15 Occurrences) Amram (14 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Maadai (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:34 Subtopics Related Terms |
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