Topical Encyclopedia Sabanneus is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text known as the Book of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and the Apocrypha. While not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament, 1 Esdras is recognized in certain Christian traditions, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church. The name Sabanneus appears in 1 Esdras 9:34, where he is listed among those who had taken foreign wives during the time of Ezra's reforms.Biblical Context The context of Sabanneus's mention is the post-exilic period, a time when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and reestablish their community according to the Law of Moses. Ezra, a scribe and priest, was a central figure in this restoration effort. He was particularly concerned with the issue of intermarriage between the Israelites and the surrounding nations, which was seen as a violation of the covenant and a threat to the purity of the Israelite community. In 1 Esdras 9:34, Sabanneus is named among those who had married foreign women. The text reads: "All these had married foreign women, and some of them had children by these wives." This passage parallels the account found in the canonical book of Ezra, specifically Ezra 10:44, where similar lists of those who had taken foreign wives are recorded. The issue of intermarriage was addressed by Ezra as part of a broader effort to lead the people in repentance and renewal of their covenant with God. Theological Significance The mention of Sabanneus, though brief, highlights the broader theological themes of covenant faithfulness and the importance of maintaining the distinct identity of God's people. The post-exilic community faced the challenge of reestablishing their identity in a world where they were surrounded by other cultures and religious practices. The prohibition against intermarriage was not merely a cultural or ethnic concern but was deeply rooted in the theological conviction that Israel was to be a holy nation, set apart for the Lord. Ezra's reforms, including the call for the dissolution of these marriages, were aimed at preserving the religious and spiritual integrity of the community. This reflects the biblical principle that God's people are to live in obedience to His commandments, avoiding alliances that could lead them away from their exclusive devotion to Him. Historical and Cultural Background The return from exile and the subsequent reforms under leaders like Ezra and Nehemiah were pivotal moments in Jewish history. The community faced the task of rebuilding not only the physical structures of Jerusalem but also the spiritual and social fabric of their society. The issue of intermarriage was a significant concern because it was seen as a potential source of idolatry and syncretism, which had been major factors in the earlier downfall of Israel and Judah. The inclusion of Sabanneus in the list of those who had taken foreign wives serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to maintain faithfulness to God's covenant in the face of external influences. It underscores the need for vigilance and commitment to the principles laid out in the Torah, which were intended to guide the people in their relationship with God and with one another. Conclusion While Sabanneus is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in 1 Esdras contributes to our understanding of the challenges faced by the post-exilic community and the measures taken to address them. His account is a small part of the larger narrative of God's redemptive work in history, calling His people to holiness and faithfulness in every generation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SABANNEUSsab-a-ne'-us (Codex Vaticanus Sabannaious; Codex Alexandrinus Bannaious; the King James Version Bannaia, following the Aldine): One of the sons of Asom who had married strange wives (1 Esdras 9:33) = "Zabad" in Ezra 10:33. Thesaurus Sabanneus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SABANNEUS. sab-a-ne'-us (Codex Vaticanus Sabannaious; Codex Alexandrinus Bannaious; the King James ... /s/sabanneus.htm - 6k Zabad (8 Occurrences) Sabannus Sabakon Bannaia Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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