Re-ai'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic community, specifically in the lineage of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who returned to Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. The Nethinim were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple, and their inclusion in the genealogies underscores their importance in the restoration of worship practices in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

Re-ai'ah is mentioned in the Book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the rebuilding of the temple. In Ezra 2:47 , the text states: "the descendants of Re-ai'ah, the descendants of Rezin, the descendants of Nekoda." This verse is part of a larger list that enumerates the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua.

The parallel account in the Book of Nehemiah also includes Re-ai'ah in the list of the Nethinim. Nehemiah 7:50 reads: "the descendants of Re-ai'ah, the descendants of Rezin, the descendants of Nekoda." This repetition in both Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the continuity and consistency of the genealogical records preserved by the Jewish community.

Historical and Theological Context:

The mention of Re-ai'ah within the genealogies of Ezra and Nehemiah serves to emphasize the meticulous care with which the post-exilic community documented their heritage and the restoration of their religious practices. The Nethinim, including the descendants of Re-ai'ah, played a crucial role in the reestablishment of temple worship, which was central to the identity and spiritual life of the Jewish people.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Re-ai'ah and other Nethinim in the biblical record reflects the inclusive nature of God's covenant community. Although the Nethinim were not originally part of the Israelite tribes, their dedication to serving in the temple illustrates the broader theme of God's grace and the incorporation of diverse groups into His redemptive plan.

Name Meaning and Significance:

The name Re-ai'ah is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often associated with the concept of "seeing" or "vision." This etymological connection may symbolize the role of the Nethinim as those who were attentive to the needs of the temple and the worship of God.

In summary, Re-ai'ah represents a link in the chain of faithful service that contributed to the spiritual renewal of the Jewish people during a pivotal period in their history. His inclusion in the biblical genealogies underscores the importance of every member in the community of faith, regardless of their specific role or origin.Re-ai'ah (4 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 4:2
Reaiah the son of Shobal became the father of Jahath; and Jahath became the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These are the families of the Zorathites.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 5:5
Micah his son, Reaiah his son, Baal his son,
(See RSV)

Ezra 2:47
the children of Giddel, the children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah,
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:50
the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda,
(See RSV)

Re-ai'ah (4 Occurrences)
Re-ai'ah. Reaiah, Re-ai'ah. Real . Multi-Version Concordance Re-ai'ah
(4 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 4:2 Reaiah the son of Shobal ...
/r/re-ai'ah.htm - 7k

Real (26 Occurrences)

/r/real.htm - 14k

Reaiah (4 Occurrences)

/r/reaiah.htm - 8k

Will the generation that saw Israel re-formed as a nation still be alive for the Second Coming? | GotQuestions.org

What is the Catholic sacrament of Holy Eucharist? | GotQuestions.org

Are many practices and traditions in Christianity actually pagan in origin? | GotQuestions.org

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