Jesaiah, also known as Jeshaiah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the post-exilic community of Israel. He is noted as a descendant of the royal line of David, being the grandson of Zerubbabel, who played a significant role in the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

Genealogical Context

Jesaiah is listed in the genealogies found in the First Book of Chronicles. In 1 Chronicles 3:19-21 , the lineage of Zerubbabel is detailed, where Jesaiah is mentioned as one of the sons of Hananiah, Zerubbabel's son. The passage reads:

"The sons of Pedaiah: Zerubbabel and Shimei. The sons of Zerubbabel: Meshullam and Hananiah, and Shelomith was their sister. There were also five others: Hashubah, Ohel, Berechiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-Hesed. The descendants of Hananiah: Pelatiah and Jeshaiah, and the sons of Rephaiah, the sons of Arnan, the sons of Obadiah, and the sons of Shecaniah."

This genealogical record places Jesaiah within the Davidic line, highlighting the continuity of the royal lineage even after the exile. The mention of Jesaiah in this context underscores the importance of maintaining the heritage and promises associated with the house of David.

Historical and Theological Significance

While Jesaiah himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogies serves a critical purpose. It reflects the restoration of the Jewish community's identity and the fulfillment of God's promises to David. The genealogies in Chronicles emphasize the legitimacy and continuity of the Davidic line, which is central to the messianic expectations found throughout the Old Testament.

The post-exilic period was a time of rebuilding and re-establishing the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people. Figures like Jesaiah, though not individually prominent, represent the broader community's hope and faith in God's covenantal promises. The genealogical records serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving the line through which the Messiah would eventually come.

Name and Variations

The name Jesaiah, or Jeshaiah, means "Yahweh is salvation," reflecting a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize God's deliverance and faithfulness. The variation in spelling is typical of Hebrew names, which often appear differently in various translations and manuscripts.

Conclusion

Jesaiah's mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. As a descendant of Zerubbabel and part of the Davidic line, Jesaiah's inclusion underscores the continuity of God's promises to His people, serving as a reminder of the hope and restoration that characterized the post-exilic community.1 Chronicles 3:21
And the sons of Hananiah; Pelatiah, and Jesaiah: the sons of Rephaiah, the sons of Arnan, the sons of Obadiah, the sons of Shechaniah.
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