Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Sharai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period. The name "Sharai" appears in the genealogical records of the Israelites who returned from the Babylonian exile. This entry explores the biblical references to Sharai, the historical and theological significance of the name, and its role within the broader narrative of the Bible. Biblical References: Sharai is mentioned in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple. The specific reference to Sharai is found in Ezra 10:40, where he is listed among those who had taken foreign wives, an issue that Ezra sought to address in order to restore the purity and covenantal faithfulness of the Israelite community. Ezra 10:40 : "Of the sons of Immer: Hanani and Zebadiah." Historical Context: The mention of Sharai occurs during a critical period in Jewish history. After the Babylonian exile, the Jewish people faced the challenge of re-establishing their religious and cultural identity. The return to Jerusalem under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah was marked by efforts to rebuild the Temple and reconstitute the community according to the laws of Moses. The issue of intermarriage with foreign women was seen as a threat to the distinctiveness of the Israelite identity and their covenant relationship with God. Ezra's reforms, including the call for the Israelites to separate from their foreign wives, were aimed at ensuring the community's faithfulness to God's commandments. Theological Significance: The inclusion of Sharai in the list of those who had taken foreign wives highlights the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to maintain their covenantal obligations. This narrative underscores the importance of holiness and separation from practices that could lead to idolatry and syncretism. The call to repentance and the willingness to make difficult decisions for the sake of faithfulness to God are central themes in this account. The account of Sharai and others in Ezra 10 serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in preserving the purity of worship and adherence to God's laws. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's desire for His people to be set apart and wholly devoted to Him. Name Meaning and Etymology: The name "Sharai" is of Hebrew origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively known. It may be related to the root word "shar," which can mean "prince" or "noble." Names in the Bible often carry significant meanings and can reflect the character or destiny of the individuals who bear them. Conclusion: While Sharai is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the book of Ezra contributes to the understanding of the post-exilic community's challenges and the efforts to restore Israel's covenantal faithfulness. The account of Sharai and others who faced the difficult decision to separate from foreign influences serves as a testament to the enduring call for God's people to live in obedience and holiness. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary SharaiSmith's Bible Dictionary Sharai(releaser), one of the sons of Bani. (Ezra 10:40) (B.C. 457.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHARAIsha-ra'-i, sha'-ri (sharay): One of the sons of Bani who had married foreign wives (Ezra 10:40). Strong's Hebrew 8298. Sharay -- an Israelite with a foreign wife... 8297, 8298. Sharay. 8299 . an Israelite with a foreign wife. Transliteration: Sharay Phonetic Spelling: (shaw-rah'-ee) Short Definition: Sharai. ... Sharai. ... /hebrew/8298.htm - 6k Thesaurus Sharai (1 Occurrence)...SHARAI. sha-ra'-i, sha'-ri (sharay): One of the sons of Bani who had married foreign wives (Ezra 10:40). Multi-Version Concordance Sharai (1 Occurrence). ... /s/sharai.htm - 6k Sha'rai (1 Occurrence) Machnad'ebai (1 Occurrence) Machnadebai (1 Occurrence) Machnadbai (1 Occurrence) Shashai (1 Occurrence) Shaping (1 Occurrence) Shelemiah (10 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Sharai (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:40 Subtopics Sharai: A Descendant of Bani, Who Put Away (Divorced) his Gentile Wife Related Terms |
    |