Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Mispar" is of Hebrew origin, and it is generally understood to mean "number" or "enumeration." In the context of biblical names, it may imply someone who is counted or numbered among a group, possibly indicating a role or status within a community. Biblical References: Mispar is mentioned in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. The name appears in the list of those who returned with Zerubbabel, a leader who played a significant role in the restoration of the Jewish community and the rebuilding of the Temple. · Ezra 2:2 : "They came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. The number of the men of the people of Israel:" In this passage, Mispar is listed among the leaders or notable individuals who accompanied Zerubbabel. This group was instrumental in the re-establishment of Jewish life and worship in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Historical and Theological Context: The return from Babylonian exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. The individuals listed in Ezra 2:2, including Mispar, were part of the first wave of returnees. Their journey back to Jerusalem was not merely a physical relocation but also a spiritual renewal and a re-commitment to the covenant with God. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a demonstration of God's faithfulness and mercy. Despite the people's previous disobedience, which led to their exile, God remained committed to His covenant promises. The inclusion of Mispar in this list underscores the importance of each individual in the collective effort to rebuild and restore the community. Role and Significance: While specific details about Mispar's life and role are not extensively documented in the biblical text, his inclusion in the list of returnees suggests that he held a position of some significance. As with many biblical figures, the lack of detailed personal information does not diminish the importance of his contribution to the larger narrative of Israel's restoration. In the broader biblical narrative, individuals like Mispar represent the faithful remnant who responded to God's call to return and rebuild. Their actions laid the groundwork for the eventual re-establishment of the Temple and the renewal of religious practices, which were central to Jewish identity and worship. Conclusion: Mispar's mention in the book of Ezra highlights the collective effort of the Jewish people to restore their community and religious life after the exile. His presence in the list of returnees serves as a reminder of the importance of each individual's role in fulfilling God's purposes and the ongoing account of redemption and restoration in the biblical narrative. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MisparMispereth, numbering; showing; increase of tribute International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MISPARmis'-par (micpar): An exile who returned with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:2). the King James Version spells the name "Mizpar." In the parallel verse of Nehemiah it appears as "Mispereth" (Nehemiah 7:7). Strong's Hebrew 4558. Mispar -- an Israelite... 4557, 4558. Mispar. 4559 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Mispar Phonetic Spelling: (mis-pawr') Short Definition: Mispar. ... NASB Word Usage Mispar (1). Mizpar ... /hebrew/4558.htm - 6k 4557. mispar -- number, tally Library List of Authorities Thesaurus Mispar (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MISPAR. mis'-par (micpar): An exile ... 7:7). Multi-Version Concordance Mispar (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:2 ... /m/mispar.htm - 7k Zerub'babel (23 Occurrences) Nehemi'ah (8 Occurrences) Jeshua (30 Occurrences) Rehum (8 Occurrences) Reelaiah (1 Occurrence) Re-el-ai'ah (1 Occurrence) Mor'decai (51 Occurrences) Mordecai (52 Occurrences) Mispereth (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Mispar (1 Occurrence)Ezra 2:2 Subtopics Related Terms |