Maaseiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the lineage of Baruch, the scribe and faithful companion of the prophet Jeremiah. His name, Maaseiah, means "work of the Lord" or "Yahweh's work," reflecting a common practice in Hebrew culture of embedding the name of God within personal names to signify devotion or divine purpose.

Genealogical Context

Maaseiah is identified as the grandfather of Baruch in the Book of Jeremiah. Baruch, son of Neriah, is a significant figure in the prophetic ministry of Jeremiah, serving as his scribe and confidant. The genealogical reference to Maaseiah is found in Jeremiah 32:12, where it states: "and I gave this deed to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah, in the presence of my cousin Hanamel and of the witnesses who were signing the purchase deed and of all the Jews sitting in the courtyard of the guard."

This passage situates Maaseiah within a family of notable standing, as Baruch's role as a scribe and his close association with Jeremiah suggest a family of some education and influence. The mention of Maaseiah in this context underscores the importance of familial lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative, particularly in the transmission of faith and duty.

Historical and Religious Significance

While Maaseiah himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his mention as the grandfather of Baruch places him within the broader tapestry of Israel's history during a tumultuous period. The era of Jeremiah's ministry was marked by political upheaval, the threat of Babylonian conquest, and significant religious reform. Baruch's role in documenting Jeremiah's prophecies and his steadfast support during times of persecution highlight the potential influence of his family background, including the legacy of Maaseiah.

The name Maaseiah appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with various individuals who served in religious or governmental capacities. This recurrence suggests that the name was relatively common and may have been borne by individuals who were dedicated to the service of God, whether in priestly, prophetic, or administrative roles.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of Maaseiah in the lineage of Baruch serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of God's people and the importance of family heritage in the unfolding of divine plans. The faithfulness of Baruch, potentially influenced by his familial lineage, exemplifies the biblical theme of generational faithfulness and the transmission of spiritual values.

In the broader narrative of Scripture, individuals like Maaseiah, though not extensively detailed, contribute to the rich tapestry of God's redemptive history. Their inclusion in genealogical records underscores the belief in divine providence and the significance of each person's role, however small, in the fulfillment of God's purposes.Jeremiah 32:12
And I gave the evidence of the purchase to Baruch the son of Neriah, the son of Maaseiah, in the sight of Hanameel my uncle's son, and in the presence of the witnesses that subscribed the book of the purchase, before all the Jews that sat in the court of the prison.
Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 51:59
The word which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah, the son of Maaseiah, when he went with Zedekiah the king of Judah into Babylon in the fourth year of his reign. And this Seraiah was a quiet prince.
Nave's Topical Index

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... to the sanctuaries, now rebuilt, all the wealth of which his grandfather had robbed
them ... year of Josiah up to the date indicated to his servant Baruch, and that ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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