Tamah is listed among 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 role was crucial in maintaining the daily operations and rituals of the temple, ensuring that the worship and sacrifices prescribed by the Law of Moses were carried out efficiently and reverently.

Biblical References:

Tamah is mentioned specifically in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple.

1. Ezra 2:53 : "the descendants of Barkos, the descendants of Sisera, the descendants of Temah,"

In this passage, Tamah is listed among the descendants of the Nethinim who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. The inclusion of Tamah in this list underscores the importance of the Nethinim in the restoration of temple worship after the Babylonian exile.

2. Nehemiah 7:55 : "the descendants of Barkos, the descendants of Sisera, the descendants of Temah,"

This verse mirrors the account in Ezra, reaffirming the presence of Tamah's descendants among those who returned to help reestablish the religious practices of Israel. Nehemiah's record serves as a testament to the continuity and faithfulness of the Nethinim in their service to God.

Historical and Theological Context:

The Nethinim, including the descendants of Tamah, played a vital role in the religious life of post-exilic Israel. Their dedication to temple service highlights the communal effort required to restore and maintain the worship of Yahweh after a period of displacement and foreign domination. The returnees, including the Nethinim, were committed to reestablishing their identity as God's chosen people, adhering to the covenantal laws and practices that set them apart from the surrounding nations.

The mention of Tamah and other Nethinim in the genealogical records of Ezra and Nehemiah emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage in the Jewish faith. It reflects the continuity of God's promises to His people, as well as the fulfillment of prophetic words regarding the return from exile.

Significance:

The inclusion of Tamah among the Nethinim in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the diverse roles within the community of faith. While the Nethinim were not of the priestly line, their service was indispensable to the functioning of the temple and the spiritual life of Israel. Their faithfulness in fulfilling their duties exemplifies the biblical principle that all members of the community, regardless of status, have a part to play in the worship and service of God.

Tamah's mention in the Scriptures, though brief, is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who serve God with humility and dedication, contributing to the greater purpose of His divine plan for His people.Nehemiah 7:55
The children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Tamah,
Nave's Topical Index

8547. Tamach -- head of a postexilic family
... Tamah, Thamah. Of uncertain derivation; Temach, one of the Nethinim -- Tamah,
Thamah. 8546, 8547. Tamach. 8548 . Strong's Numbers.
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