Ater is a name that appears in the context of post-exilic Israel, specifically during the time of Nehemiah. The name Ater, which means "left-handed" or "bound," is associated with a family or clan that returned from the Babylonian exile. This return was part of the larger movement of the Jewish people back to Jerusalem and Judah following the decree of Cyrus the Great, which allowed the exiles to return and rebuild the temple and the city.

Biblical References:

1. Return from Exile: The family of Ater is mentioned among those who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. In Ezra 2:16 and Nehemiah 7:21, the "descendants of Ater" are listed among the exiles who came back to Judah. The Berean Standard Bible states: "the descendants of Ater (through Hezekiah), 98" (Ezra 2:16). This indicates that the family of Ater was part of the initial wave of returnees who were committed to the restoration of their homeland.

2. Covenant with Nehemiah: Ater is also noted for being among those who subscribed to the covenant under Nehemiah's leadership. In Nehemiah 10:1, the BSB records: "On the seals are the names of Nehemiah the governor, son of Hacaliah, and Zedekiah, Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, Pashhur, Amariah, Malchijah, Hattush, Shebaniah, Malluch, Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah, Daniel, Ginnethon, Baruch, Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin, Maaziah, Bilgai, and Shemaiah. These were the priests." While Ater is not explicitly named in this verse, the family is implied to be part of the broader community that committed to the covenant, as the list continues with the heads of the people, including the Levites and leaders of the people.

Historical and Theological Context:

The return from Babylonian exile was a significant event in Jewish history, marking a period of renewal and reformation. The families that returned, including that of Ater, played a crucial role in the re-establishment of Jewish society and religious practices. The covenant mentioned in Nehemiah 10 was a formal agreement to follow the Law of God, emphasizing the community's dedication to living according to the statutes given to Moses.

The inclusion of Ater's family in these records highlights their commitment to the spiritual and communal restoration of Israel. This covenant was not merely a political or social agreement but a deeply spiritual renewal, reflecting the people's desire to align themselves with God's will after the period of exile and judgment.

Significance:

The mention of Ater and his descendants in these contexts underscores the importance of individual and familial contributions to the collective faith journey of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required of God's people in times of rebuilding and renewal. The participation of Ater's family in the covenant with Nehemiah illustrates the broader theme of covenant faithfulness that runs throughout the biblical narrative, calling each generation to uphold the commitments made before God.Nehemiah 10:17
Ater, Hizkijah, Azzur,
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