Topical Encyclopedia Mamdai is a name mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically in the Book of Ezra. The name appears in a list of peoples who were settled in Samaria by the Assyrian king after the Northern Kingdom of Israel was conquered and its inhabitants were exiled. This list is found in Ezra 4:9-10, where the people of the land write a letter to King Artaxerxes of Persia, opposing the rebuilding of Jerusalem by the returning Jewish exiles.Biblical Reference: Ezra 4:9-10 states: "From Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates—the judges and officials over Tripolis, Persia, Erech, and Babylon, the Elamites of Susa, and the other peoples whom the great and honorable Ashurbanipal deported and settled in the city of Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates." Historical Context: The mention of Mamdai occurs during the period when the Jewish exiles were returning from Babylonian captivity to rebuild the temple and the city of Jerusalem. The Assyrian policy of resettling conquered peoples in different regions was intended to prevent rebellion and maintain control over vast territories. The people listed, including the Mamdai, were part of this resettlement strategy and were likely of mixed origin, contributing to the ethnic and religious diversity of the region. Cultural and Religious Significance: The presence of the Mamdai and other groups in Samaria led to significant cultural and religious tensions between the returning Jewish exiles and the inhabitants of the land. The Samaritans, as they came to be known, developed a distinct identity, blending elements of Israelite worship with the practices of the various peoples settled in the region. This syncretism was a source of conflict, as the returning Jews sought to reestablish a pure form of worship according to the Law of Moses. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of the Mamdai and other peoples in Ezra highlights the challenges faced by the Jewish community in maintaining their covenant identity amidst external influences. The opposition from these groups serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to remain faithful to God's commands in a world that often stands in opposition to His purposes. Linguistic Notes: The name "Mamdai" is of uncertain origin, and its exact meaning is not clear. It is possible that it refers to a specific ethnic group or tribe that was known during the time of the Assyrian Empire. The lack of additional biblical or extrabiblical references to Mamdai makes it difficult to ascertain more detailed information about this group. In summary, Mamdai represents one of the many peoples who were part of the complex social and religious landscape of post-exilic Israel. Their mention in the Book of Ezra underscores the broader historical and theological themes of restoration, identity, and faithfulness that are central to the narrative of the Jewish return from exile. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAMDAImam'-da-i, mam'-di (LXX: Codex Vaticanus Mamdai; Codex Alexandrinus Mandai): One of those who consented to put away their "strange wives" at Esdras' order (1 Esdras 9:34) = the King James Version "Mabdai" = "Benaiah" in Ezra 10:35. Thesaurus Mamdai... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAMDAI. mam'-da-i, mam'-di (LXX: Codex Vaticanus Mamdai; Codex Alexandrinus Mandai): One of those ... /m/mamdai.htm - 6k Mammon (4 Occurrences) Mamaias Mabdai Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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