Topical Encyclopedia Neari'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name, which can be translated as "servant of Yah" or "lamp of the Lord," reflects a common practice in Hebrew culture of incorporating the name of God into personal names, signifying a relationship or dedication to the divine.Genealogical Context Neari'ah is noted in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah, specifically within the lineage of David. He is identified as a descendant of Shemaiah, who is a son of Shecaniah. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles provide a detailed account of Neari'ah's place within the family tree: · 1 Chronicles 3:22 : "The descendants of Shecaniah: Shemaiah and his sons: Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat—six in all." This passage situates Neari'ah as one of the sons of Shemaiah, making him a part of the post-exilic community that returned to Jerusalem. The genealogies in Chronicles serve to establish the continuity of the Davidic line and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, even after the Babylonian exile. Historical and Theological Significance The mention of Neari'ah, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of God's faithfulness to the house of David. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are not merely historical records but are theological affirmations of God's covenant with David, emphasizing the legitimacy and continuity of his lineage. Neari'ah's inclusion in this lineage underscores the importance of each individual in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. In the context of the post-exilic period, the chronicler's emphasis on genealogies served to reassure the returning exiles of their identity and heritage. It reinforced the notion that despite the disruptions caused by exile, God's promises remained steadfast, and His chosen line would continue to play a pivotal role in the history of Israel. Cultural and Linguistic Notes The name Neari'ah, like many Hebrew names, carries theological significance. The use of "Yah," a shortened form of Yahweh, in his name reflects a cultural practice of invoking the divine in personal names, which was common among the Israelites. This practice not only identified individuals but also expressed a theological statement about their relationship with God. Conclusion While Neari'ah is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of every individual in the divine narrative. His inclusion in the sacred text serves as a reminder of the meticulous care with which God preserves His promises and the integral role of each person in the unfolding of His divine plan. Concordance Neari'ah (2 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 3:22 1 Chronicles 3:23 Thesaurus Neari'ah (2 Occurrences)Neari'ah. Neariah, Neari'ah. Ne-ari'ah . Multi-Version Concordance Neari'ah (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 3:22 And the sons of Shecaniah ... /n/neari'ah.htm - 6k Ne-ari'ah (1 Occurrence) Neariah (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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