Topical Bible: Purosh

Topical Encyclopedia

Purosh is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the post-exilic context of the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. He is recognized as the head of a family or clan that returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem and Judah. The name "Purosh" is believed to mean "flea" or "fruitful," though the exact etymology is uncertain.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:3 : "the descendants of Parosh, 2,172." This verse lists the descendants of Purosh (Parosh) among those who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. The substantial number of returnees indicates that Purosh's family was significant in size and influence.

2. Nehemiah 7:8 : "the descendants of Parosh, 2,172." This passage mirrors the account in Ezra, reaffirming the presence and importance of Purosh's descendants in the restoration community.

3. Ezra 8:3 : "of the descendants of Parosh, Zechariah, and with him were registered 150 men." This verse highlights a later group of returnees led by Zechariah, a descendant of Purosh, who accompanied Ezra in a subsequent return to Jerusalem. This indicates the ongoing involvement of Purosh's lineage in the religious and communal life of the post-exilic Jewish community.

4. Nehemiah 10:14 : "The leaders of the people: Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani." Here, Purosh (Parosh) is listed among the leaders who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah, committing to follow the Law of God and to support the temple service. This act underscores the dedication of Purosh's descendants to the spiritual renewal and covenantal faithfulness of the Jewish people.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The family of Purosh played a vital role in the re-establishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Their inclusion in the lists of returnees and covenant signatories highlights their commitment to the restoration of Israel's religious and social structures. The repeated mention of Purosh's descendants in both Ezra and Nehemiah suggests that they were a prominent family, contributing to the leadership and spiritual life of the community.

From a theological perspective, the return of Purosh's family, along with other exiles, fulfills the prophetic promises of restoration and return found in the writings of prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. Their participation in the covenant renewal under Nehemiah reflects the broader theme of repentance and recommitment to God's law, which is central to the post-exilic narrative.

In summary, Purosh represents a family deeply integrated into the fabric of the restored Jewish community, embodying the themes of faithfulness, leadership, and covenantal renewal that are pivotal in the post-exilic period.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Purosh

(flea). The descendants of Parosh, in number 2172, returned front Babylon with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:3; Nehemiah 7:8) Another detachment of 150 males, with Zechariah at their head, accompanied Ezra. (Ezra 8:3) They assisted in the building of the well of Jerusalem, (Nehemiah 3:26) and signed the covenant with Nehemiah. (Nehemiah 10:14) (B.C. before 535-445.)