Topical Encyclopedia Eliezer is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, and it is associated with several individuals. One notable Eliezer is mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period, a time when the Israelites returned to Jerusalem and Judah after the Babylonian exile. This Eliezer is recognized for his role in the religious and social reforms that took place under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah.Biblical Context The return from exile marked a significant period in Israel's history, characterized by a renewed commitment to the covenant and the Law of Moses. The community faced the challenge of re-establishing their identity as God's chosen people amidst foreign influences and internal struggles. Leaders like Ezra and Nehemiah were instrumental in guiding the people back to faithfulness. Eliezer's Role Eliezer is mentioned in the book of Ezra as one of the Israelites who took foreign wives, a practice that was contrary to the Law and seen as a threat to the purity of the Israelite community. Ezra 10:18-19 states: "Among the descendants of the priests, the following were found to have married foreign women: From the descendants of Jeshua son of Jozadak and his brothers: Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah. They pledged to send their wives away, and for their guilt they presented a ram from the flock as a guilt offering." This passage highlights Eliezer's involvement in the issue of intermarriage, which was addressed by Ezra as part of his reform efforts. The intermarriage with foreign women was seen as a violation of the covenant, and the leaders, including Eliezer, were called to repentance and action. The decision to send away foreign wives and offer a guilt offering was a demonstration of their commitment to restoring the community's faithfulness to God. Significance Eliezer's inclusion in the list of those who repented and took corrective action underscores the seriousness with which the post-exilic community approached the issue of covenant fidelity. The reforms led by Ezra were crucial in re-establishing the religious and social order of the Israelites, ensuring that they remained distinct and devoted to the Lord. The narrative of Eliezer and others who participated in these reforms serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the willingness to make difficult decisions for the sake of spiritual integrity. It reflects the broader theme of repentance and renewal that is central to the post-exilic period and the ongoing account of Israel's relationship with God. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 10:31And of the sons of Harim; Eliezer, Ishijah, Malchiah, Shemaiah, Shimeon, Nave's Topical Index Library Appendix v. Rabbinic Theology and Literature Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources Old Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Zipporah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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