Nobai is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. The reference to Nobai is found in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem and the surrounding regions. This period is marked by the rebuilding of the Temple and the re-establishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral homeland.

Biblical Reference:

The name Nobai appears in the book of Ezra, which records the efforts of the Jewish people to restore their religious and communal life after the Babylonian exile. In Ezra 2:60, Nobai is listed among the descendants of the temple servants who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. The verse reads:

"the descendants of Delaiah, the descendants of Tobiah, and the descendants of Nekoda, 652 in all." (Ezra 2:60)

In this context, Nobai is associated with the group of people who could not prove their ancestral lineage, specifically their connection to Israel. This group included the descendants of Delaiah, Tobiah, and Nekoda, who were collectively numbered at 652. The mention of Nobai in this list suggests a connection to the temple service, as these individuals were likely part of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants assigned to assist the Levites in their duties.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The return from exile was a significant event in Jewish history, as it marked the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. The exiles faced numerous challenges, including the need to re-establish their identity and religious practices. The genealogical records were crucial for determining the legitimacy of claims to land, priestly duties, and participation in the community.

The inability of some families, including those associated with Nobai, to prove their lineage posed a challenge to their full integration into the community. This issue highlights the importance of genealogical records in maintaining the purity and continuity of the Israelite community, especially concerning temple service and worship.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Nobai and others who could not verify their ancestry underscores the theme of identity and belonging in the post-exilic community. It reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness in preserving His people despite their past disobedience and the consequences of exile. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple symbolize a renewed covenant relationship between God and His people.

Furthermore, the inclusion of those with uncertain lineage in the biblical record demonstrates the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan. While genealogical purity was essential for certain roles, the overarching message of the Scriptures is one of grace and restoration for all who seek to align themselves with God's purposes.

Conclusion:

The brief mention of Nobai in the book of Ezra serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by the returning exiles and the importance of community and identity in the life of God's people. It also points to the broader themes of restoration and inclusion that are central to the biblical narrative.NOBAI

no'-bi, nob'-a-i (nobhay, or nebhay): One of those who took part in sealing the covenant (Nehemiah 10:19).

5109. Nobay -- an Israelite leader
... leader NASB Word Usage Nebai (1). Nebai. From nowb; fruitful; Nobai, an Israelite --
Nebai (from the margin). see HEBREW nowb. 5108, 5109. Nobay. 5110 . ...
/hebrew/5109.htm - 6kNobai (1 Occurrence)
...NOBAI. no'-bi, nob'-ai (nobhay, or nebhay): One of those who took part in sealing
the covenant (Nehemiah 10:19). Multi-Version Concordance Nobai (1 Occurrence). ...
/n/nobai.htm - 6k

Nobah (2 Occurrences)

/n/nobah.htm - 8k

Nobility (5 Occurrences)

/n/nobility.htm - 8k

Ne'bai (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ne'bai (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 10:19 Hariph, Anathoth,
Nobai, (See RSV). Nebai, Ne'bai. Nebaioth . Reference Bible.
/n/ne'bai.htm - 6k

Anathoth (16 Occurrences)
... ASV BBE DBY NAS NIV). Nehemiah 10:19 Hariph, Anathoth, Nobai, (WEB KJV JPS
ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Nehemiah 11:32 at Anathoth ...
/a/anathoth.htm - 14k

An'athoth (19 Occurrences)
... twenty-eight. (See RSV). Nehemiah 10:19 Hariph, Anathoth, Nobai, (See RSV).
Nehemiah 11:32 at Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah, (See RSV). Isaiah ...
/a/an'athoth.htm - 11k

Hariph (1 Occurrence)
... Ezra 2:18 has "Jorah.". Multi-Version Concordance Hariph (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah
10:19 Hariph, Anathoth, Nobai, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/h/hariph.htm - 7k

Nebai (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NEBAI. ne'-bi, ne-ba'-i, neb'-ai (nebhay).
See NOBAI. Multi-Version Concordance Nebai (1 Occurrence). ...
/n/nebai.htm - 6k

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