Phaseah is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is noted as one of the leaders or heads of families who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem and Judah. The name Phaseah appears in the genealogical records that detail the rebuilding efforts and the reestablishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral homeland.

Biblical References:

Phaseah is specifically mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, which chronicles the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the city after the Babylonian captivity. In Nehemiah 7:51, the Berean Standard Bible lists the descendants of Phaseah among those who returned with Zerubbabel: "the descendants of Phaseah, 2,172." This enumeration is part of a larger census that Nehemiah records, highlighting the families and individuals who played a role in the restoration of Jerusalem.

Historical Context:

The return from exile was a significant event in Jewish history, marking a period of renewal and religious reform. The Persian king Cyrus the Great had issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. This return was led by notable figures such as Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, who were instrumental in the physical and spiritual rebuilding of the Jewish community.

Phaseah's mention in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the post-exilic community. These records were crucial for reestablishing the identity and heritage of the Jewish people, ensuring that the covenantal promises and religious practices were maintained according to the Law of Moses.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Phaseah and his descendants in the biblical narrative highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His people through exile and bringing them back to their land. The restoration of Jerusalem and the temple was seen as a fulfillment of prophetic promises and a testament to God's enduring covenant with Israel.

The rebuilding efforts, in which families like that of Phaseah participated, were not merely physical but also spiritual. They represented a renewal of commitment to God's laws and a reestablishment of worship in accordance with the divine ordinances. The genealogical records served as a reminder of the continuity of God's plan and the role of each family in the unfolding of His purposes.

Cultural and Social Aspects:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were vital for establishing legal rights, inheritance, and social status. For the returning exiles, proving one's lineage was essential for reclaiming ancestral lands and participating in the religious life of the community. The mention of Phaseah's descendants in Nehemiah's list reflects the broader cultural emphasis on family and tribal identity, which was integral to the social structure of Israel.

The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the reconstitution of the Jewish community were collective efforts that required the cooperation and dedication of various families and clans. The descendants of Phaseah, along with others, contributed to the labor and resources necessary for these monumental tasks, demonstrating a shared commitment to the restoration of their nation and faith.Phaseah

(Nehemiah 7:51) [PASEAH, 2]

PHASEAH, PASEAH

(1) A descendant of Judah, son of Eshton (1 Chronicles 4:12).

(2) Name of a family of Nethinim (Ezra 2:49 Nehemiah 7:51 (King James Version "Phaseah"); "Phinoe" of 1 Esdras 5:31 Revised Version).

(3) Father of Joiada (King James Version "Jehoiada"), the repairer of the "old gate" in Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:6).

6454. Paseach -- "limper," three Israelites
... NASB Word Usage Paseah (4). Paseah, Phaseah. From pacach; limping; Paseach, the
name of two Israelites -- Paseah, Phaseah. see HEBREW pacach. 6453, 6454. ...
/hebrew/6454.htm - 6kPhaseah (2 Occurrences)
...PHASEAH, PASEAH. ... (2) Name of a family of Nethinim (Ezra 2:49 Nehemiah 7:51 (King
James Version "Phaseah"); "Phinoe" of 1 Esdras 5:31 Revised Version). ...
/p/phaseah.htm - 7k

Paseah (4 Occurrences)
... (2) The eponym of a family of Nethinim (Ezra 2:49 Nehemiah 7:51, the King James
Version "Phaseah" equals "Phinoe" (1 Esdras 5:31). ...PHASEAH, PASEAH. ...
/p/paseah.htm - 8k

Phaselis

/p/phaselis.htm - 7k

Pharzites

/p/pharzites.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus