Besai is identified as one of the Nethinim in the post-exilic period of Israel's history. The Nethinim were a group of temple servants assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the house of God. Their origins are somewhat obscure, but they are believed to have been non-Israelites who were dedicated to temple service, possibly as a result of being captured in war or through other means of subjugation. Over time, they became an integral part of the temple community, performing various menial tasks necessary for the maintenance and operation of the temple.

The name Besai appears in the lists of returnees from the Babylonian exile, specifically in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. In Ezra 2:49, the Berean Standard Bible records: "the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah, the descendants of Besai." Similarly, Nehemiah 7:52 reiterates this listing: "the descendants of Besai, the descendants of Meunim, the descendants of Nephusim." These lists are part of a broader enumeration of the people who returned to Jerusalem and Judah under the leadership of Zerubbabel and later Nehemiah, following the decree of Cyrus the Great that allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple.

The inclusion of Besai among the Nethinim highlights the continuity and restoration of temple worship and service after the Babylonian exile. The Nethinim, including the descendants of Besai, played a crucial role in re-establishing the religious practices that were central to Jewish identity and community life. Their dedication to temple service underscores the importance of maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the temple, which was the focal point of Jewish worship and the symbol of God's presence among His people.

The mention of Besai and other Nethinim in these genealogical records serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving a remnant of His people and the structures necessary for their worship. It also reflects the broader theme of restoration and renewal that characterizes the post-exilic period, as the Jewish community sought to rebuild not only their physical structures but also their spiritual lives in accordance with the covenantal relationship established by God.

While the specific tasks and roles of Besai and his descendants are not detailed in the biblical text, their inclusion in the lists of returnees signifies their valued contribution to the religious life of the restored community. The Nethinim, though often overlooked, were essential to the daily operations of the temple, ensuring that the Levites could perform their priestly duties effectively. Thus, Besai's legacy, as part of this dedicated group, is one of humble service and commitment to the worship of Yahweh.Ezra 2:49
The children of Uzza, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai,
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 7:52
The children of Besai, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephishesim,
Nave's Topical Index

1153. Besay -- one of the Nethinim
... Besai. From buwc; domineering; Besai, one of the Nethinim -- Besai. see HEBREW
buwc. 1152, 1153. Besay. 1154 . Strong's Numbers.
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