Pelai'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of post-exilic Israel. His name, Pelai'ah, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh does wonders" or "Yahweh is distinguished." This name reflects the common practice in ancient Israel of embedding the name of God, Yahweh, into personal names, signifying a relationship or attribute associated with God.

Biblical References:

1. Nehemiah 8:7 : Pelai'ah is listed among the Levites who helped the people understand the Law as Ezra read it aloud. The verse states, "The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law as they stood in their places." This passage highlights Pelai'ah's role in the religious and educational life of the community, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adhering to the Law of God.

2. Nehemiah 10:10 : Pelai'ah is also mentioned as one of the signatories of the covenant renewal under Nehemiah. The verse reads, "and their associates: Shebaniah, Hodiah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan." This covenant was a significant moment in the re-establishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem, as it represented a collective commitment to follow God's commandments and separate themselves from the surrounding nations.

Historical and Religious Context:

Pelai'ah lived during the time of the return from the Babylonian exile, a period marked by the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the re-establishment of Jewish religious practices. The Levites, including Pelai'ah, played a crucial role in this restoration by teaching the Law and leading the people in worship. Their work was essential in reorienting the community towards a life centered on the covenant with God.

The mention of Pelai'ah in these contexts underscores the importance of religious education and covenant fidelity in the post-exilic community. The Levites' efforts to instruct the people in the Law were vital for maintaining the identity and faith of the Israelites in a time of rebuilding and renewal.

Theological Significance:

Pelai'ah's involvement in the reading and teaching of the Law, as well as his participation in the covenant renewal, reflects the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness and the call for His people to respond in obedience. The restoration of the Law and the covenant in Nehemiah's time is a testament to God's enduring commitment to His people and their responsibility to uphold His statutes.

In summary, Pelai'ah serves as a representative of the faithful Levites who were instrumental in guiding the Israelites back to a life of devotion and adherence to God's Law during a pivotal moment in their history. His contributions, though briefly mentioned, are part of the larger narrative of God's redemptive work among His people.Pelai'ah (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 3:24
And the sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, and Eliashib, and Pelaiah, and Akkub, and Johanan, and Delaiah, and Anani, seven.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 8:7
Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, even the Levites, caused the people to understand the Law; and the people stood in their place.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 10:10
and their brethren, Shebaniah, Hodiah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan;
(See RSV)

Pelai'ah (3 Occurrences)
Pelai'ah. Pelaiah, Pelai'ah. Pelaliah . Multi-Version Concordance
Pelai'ah (3 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 3:24 And the sons of Elioenai ...
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Pelaliah (1 Occurrence)

/p/pelaliah.htm - 7k

Pelaiah (3 Occurrences)

/p/pelaiah.htm - 8k

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