Introduction:
Sallai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period. His name appears in the genealogical and priestly records, highlighting his role and lineage within the community of Israel after the Babylonian exile.

Biblical References:
Sallai is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, which provides insight into the restoration efforts of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community following their return from exile. The relevant passage is found in Nehemiah 11:8, where Sallai is listed among the descendants of Benjamin who resided in Jerusalem.

Nehemiah 11:8 :
"And after him Gabbai and Sallai, nine hundred twenty-eight."

Historical Context:
The Book of Nehemiah is set during the 5th century BC, a time when the Jewish people were returning to their homeland after the Babylonian captivity. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, was granted permission to lead the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the city as a center of Jewish life and worship. The genealogical records in Nehemiah serve to establish the continuity of the Jewish community and the reestablishment of their religious and social structures.

Role and Significance:
Sallai is identified as one of the leaders or heads of the people who settled in Jerusalem. His inclusion in the list of Benjamites underscores the importance of tribal affiliations and the reconstitution of the community according to ancestral lines. The mention of Sallai, along with others, highlights the collective effort and commitment of various families and tribes in the rebuilding process.

Priestly and Levitical Connections:
While Sallai is not explicitly identified as a priest or Levite in the passage from Nehemiah, the context of the book often intertwines the roles of various leaders in the religious and civic restoration of Jerusalem. The emphasis on genealogies and tribal affiliations in Nehemiah reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and the preservation of Israel's identity as God's chosen people.

Theological Implications:
The inclusion of figures like Sallai in the biblical narrative serves to illustrate the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. The restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community are seen as acts of divine providence, with individuals like Sallai playing a part in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The genealogical records affirm the continuity of God's covenant with Israel and the importance of each member's contribution to the community's spiritual and physical renewal.

Conclusion:
Sallai's mention in the Book of Nehemiah, though brief, is part of a larger narrative that underscores the themes of restoration, faithfulness, and community. His role as a leader among the Benjamites in Jerusalem reflects the collective efforts of the Jewish people to rebuild their city and renew their covenant relationship with God.Sal'lai (1 Occurrence)

Nehemiah 12:20
of Sallai, Kallai; of Amok, Eber;
(See RSV)

Sal'lai (1 Occurrence)
Sal'lai. Sallai, Sal'lai. Salla'i . Multi-Version Concordance Sal'lai (1
Occurrence). Nehemiah 12:20 of Sallai, Kallai; of Amok, Eber; (See RSV). ...
/s/sal'lai.htm - 6k

Sallai (2 Occurrences)

/s/sallai.htm - 7k

Salla'i (1 Occurrence)
Salla'i. Sal'lai, Salla'i. Sallu . Multi-Version Concordance Salla'i (1 Occurrence). ...
(See RSV). Sal'lai, Salla'i. Sallu . Reference Bible.
/s/salla'i.htm - 6k

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