Topical Encyclopedia Barzillai is a figure mentioned in the context of the priesthood during the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is noted in the genealogical records of the returning exiles, specifically in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Barzillai is associated with a family of priests who faced a significant challenge regarding their lineage and right to serve in the priesthood.Genealogical Context The name Barzillai appears in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, a pivotal moment in Jewish history when the Israelites were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple. In the book of Ezra, we find a list of those who returned, including priests who were to resume their sacred duties. However, some of these priests faced issues concerning their genealogical records. Ezra 2:61-62 states: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name). These men searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean." Similarly, Nehemiah 7:63-64 recounts: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name). These men searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean." Marriage and Name Adoption Barzillai's connection to the priesthood is further complicated by his marriage to a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite. This marriage led to the adoption of the name Barzillai, which indicates a blending of family identities. The original Barzillai the Gileadite is a separate figure known for his loyalty to King David during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27-29). The adoption of the name Barzillai by the priestly family suggests a significant social or familial alliance, but it also contributed to the confusion regarding their priestly lineage. Priestly Exclusion The inability to produce valid genealogical records resulted in the exclusion of Barzillai's descendants from the priesthood. This exclusion was based on the strict requirements for priestly service, which demanded clear and unbroken lineage from Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest. The absence of such records rendered them "unclean" for priestly duties, highlighting the importance of purity and legitimacy in the service of the Temple. Theological Implications The account of Barzillai and his descendants underscores the significance of lineage and purity in the priestly office. It reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and the necessity of maintaining the sanctity of worship practices. The exclusion of Barzillai's descendants serves as a reminder of the high standards set for those who serve in the presence of God, emphasizing the need for both spiritual and genealogical integrity. Historical and Cultural Context The post-exilic period was a time of restoration and reformation for the Jewish people. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple were central to re-establishing their identity and religious practices. The scrutiny of genealogical records was part of a larger effort to ensure that the community adhered to the laws and traditions handed down through generations. The case of Barzillai illustrates the challenges faced by the returning exiles in reconstituting their society according to the divine mandates given to their ancestors. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 2:61And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai; which took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their name: Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 7:63 Library What Charge David Gave Tohis Son Solomon at the Approach of his ... The Antiquities of the Jews Concerning the Insurrection of Absalom against David and ... A Description of Heart-Purity Of Preparation. Resources Who was Shimei in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Ahimaaz in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Zadok in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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