Biblical Reference:
Piltai is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. The reference to Piltai can be found in Nehemiah 12:17.

Scriptural Context:
In the book of Nehemiah, Piltai is listed among the priests who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel and Jeshua. This period marks the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity and the subsequent rebuilding of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem. The priests played a crucial role in re-establishing the religious practices and maintaining the spiritual life of the community.

Nehemiah 12:17 :
"of Abijah, Zichri; of Miniamin and of Moadiah, Piltai;"

Role and Significance:
Piltai is identified as a priestly figure associated with the division of Moadiah. The divisions of priests were established to organize the temple service, ensuring that the worship and sacrifices were conducted according to the Law of Moses. Each division had specific duties and times to serve in the temple, as originally instituted by King David and later restored by the returning exiles.

The mention of Piltai, though brief, underscores the importance of the priestly lineage and the continuity of worship practices. The priests were responsible for teaching the Law, offering sacrifices, and leading the people in worship, thus playing a vital role in the spiritual restoration of Israel after the exile.

Historical and Theological Insights:
The return from exile and the rebuilding efforts led by figures like Nehemiah and Ezra were pivotal in re-establishing Jewish identity and religious life. The priests, including Piltai, were central to this process, as they ensured that the covenantal relationship between God and His people was maintained through proper worship and adherence to the Law.

The listing of priestly names, such as Piltai, in Nehemiah 12 serves not only as a historical record but also as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and their leaders. It highlights the continuity of God's promises and the fulfillment of His plans through the generations.

Conservative Christian Perspective:
From a conservative Christian viewpoint, the mention of Piltai and other priests in Nehemiah is seen as part of God's sovereign plan to restore Israel and prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah. The faithfulness of the priests in maintaining the worship and teaching of the Law is viewed as a foreshadowing of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who fulfills and perfects the priestly role through His life, death, and resurrection.Piltai or Piltai

(my deliverances), the representative of the priestly house of Moadiah or Maadiah, in the time of Joiakim the son of Jeshua. (Nehemiah 12:17) (B.C. 445.)

6408. Piltay -- an Israelite priest
... Piltay. 6409 . an Israelite priest. Transliteration: Piltay Phonetic Spelling:
(pil-tah'-ee) Short Definition: Piltai. ... priest NASB Word Usage Piltai (1). Piltai ...
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