Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Tel-harsa is mentioned in the context of the return of the exiles to Jerusalem following the Babylonian captivity. It appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the genealogies and the groups of people who returned to Judah. · Ezra 2:59 : "The following came up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, and Immer, but could not prove that their families were descended from Israel." · Nehemiah 7:61 : "The following came up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addon, and Immer, but could not prove that their families were descended from Israel." Historical Context: Tel-harsa is one of the locations from which the exiles returned to Jerusalem. The name itself suggests a settlement or mound, as "Tel" is a term used in the ancient Near East to denote a ruin or archaeological mound. The specific location of Tel-harsa is not definitively known, but it is grouped with other places such as Tel-melah and Cherub, indicating it was likely in the region of Babylonia or its vicinity. Significance in the Return from Exile: The mention of Tel-harsa in the lists of returnees highlights the diverse origins of the Jewish exiles who returned to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. The inability of some returnees to prove their Israelite descent underscores the challenges faced by the community in re-establishing their identity and religious practices after the exile. This issue of proving lineage was significant for the restoration of the priesthood and the re-establishment of the covenant community. Theological Implications: The return from exile is a pivotal event in the history of Israel, symbolizing God's faithfulness to His covenant promises despite the people's previous disobedience. The inclusion of those from Tel-harsa in the genealogical records reflects the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, as He gathers His people from various places to restore them to their land. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's chosen people, even amidst foreign influences. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While Tel-harsa itself has not been conclusively identified archaeologically, the mention of such locations in the biblical text provides insight into the geographical and cultural landscape of the time. The returnees from these areas would have brought with them influences from the Babylonian culture, which may have impacted the post-exilic community in Jerusalem. Conclusion: Tel-harsa, though briefly mentioned, plays a role in the broader narrative of the return from exile, illustrating the diverse origins of the Jewish community and the challenges they faced in re-establishing their identity and religious practices. Strong's Hebrew 8521. Tel Charsha -- "mound of a craftsman," a city in Babylon... Tel-haresha, Tel-harsa. From tel and the feminine of Charashiym; mound of workmanship; Tel-Charsha, a place in Babylonia -- Tel-haresha, Tel-harsa. ... /hebrew/8521.htm - 6k Thesaurus Telharsa (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Telharsa (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:59 And these were they which went up from Telmelah, Telharsa, Cherub, Addan ... /t/telharsa.htm - 6k Tel-harsa (1 Occurrence) Tel-me'lah (2 Occurrences) Tel-har'sha (2 Occurrences) Telmelah (2 Occurrences) Tel-haresha (1 Occurrence) Telharsha Addon (2 Occurrences) Resources What are some exciting discoveries in biblical archaeology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Jacob's well? | GotQuestions.org What happened in the Six-Day War? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tel-harsa (1 Occurrence)Ezra 2:59 Subtopics Tel-Harsa: A Place in Babylonia Related Terms |
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