Topical Bible: Hashum: A Head of a Family

◄ Hashum: A Head of a Family ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Hashum is a biblical figure recognized as the head of a family or clan during the post-exilic period of Israel's history. His name appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a significant event that marked the restoration of the Jewish community and the rebuilding of the Temple.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:19 · Hashum is listed among the families who returned with Zerubbabel from the Babylonian exile. The text states: "the descendants of Hashum, 223." This enumeration highlights the importance of family lineage and the collective effort of the Jewish people in re-establishing their homeland.

2. Nehemiah 7:22 · In a parallel account to Ezra, Nehemiah records the same number of returnees from the family of Hashum: "the descendants of Hashum, 223." This consistency underscores the reliability of the genealogical records maintained by the Jewish community.

3. Nehemiah 10:18 · Hashum is mentioned as one of the signatories of the covenant renewal led by Nehemiah. The verse reads: "Hashum, Bezai." This covenant was a solemn commitment by the leaders and people of Israel to adhere to the Law of God, emphasizing the spiritual renewal accompanying the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem.

4. Nehemiah 3:11 · A member of the family of Hashum, Malchijah, is noted for his role in the reconstruction of the walls of Jerusalem: "Malchijah son of Harim and Hasshub son of Pahath-moab repaired another section, as well as the Tower of the Ovens." This involvement in the rebuilding efforts illustrates the active participation of Hashum's descendants in the restoration of the city.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The family of Hashum is emblematic of the broader narrative of return and restoration that characterizes the post-exilic period. Their inclusion in the genealogical records and covenant renewal signifies their commitment to the re-establishment of Jewish identity and religious practice. The participation of Hashum's descendants in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls further highlights the communal effort required to restore the city both physically and spiritually.

Hashum's presence in these records reflects the importance of family heads in maintaining the continuity of the Jewish people during a time of significant transition. The emphasis on covenant renewal and adherence to the Law underscores the theological theme of faithfulness to God's commandments as central to the identity and survival of the Jewish community.

In summary, Hashum represents a family that played a vital role in the post-exilic restoration of Israel, contributing to both the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem and the spiritual renewal of its people.