Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Tobijath is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name Tobijath appears in the context of the descendants of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. The name itself is of Hebrew origin, and like many biblical names, it carries a significant meaning. Tobijath means "God is good" or "Yahweh is good," reflecting the theocentric worldview of the ancient Israelites. Biblical Reference: Tobijath is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:2, within the genealogical listings of the tribe of Issachar. The Berean Standard Bible records this passage as follows: "The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Samuel, heads of their families. During the reign of David, the descendants of Tola numbered 22,600 mighty warriors in their genealogies." Context and Significance: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve several purposes. They establish the historical and tribal lineage of the Israelites, affirming their identity and heritage. Tobijath, as part of these records, contributes to the broader narrative of God's covenant people. The genealogies also highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, particularly Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, regarding the multiplication of their descendants. The mention of Tobijath, though brief, is part of the chronicler's effort to document the continuity and faithfulness of God's people through generations. The chronicler, writing after the Babylonian exile, sought to remind the Israelites of their roots and the divine promises that remained intact despite their historical upheavals. Theological Implications: The inclusion of Tobijath in the genealogical records underscores the importance of every individual within the covenant community. Each name, though sometimes obscure, represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history. The name Tobijath, meaning "God is good," serves as a theological reminder of God's benevolence and faithfulness to His people. In the broader biblical narrative, genealogies like those in 1 Chronicles point to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus Christ. The meticulous recording of names and lineages anticipates the coming of the Messiah, who would be born from the line of David, a descendant of the tribe of Judah. While Tobijath is not directly linked to the Messianic line, his inclusion in the genealogies reflects the comprehensive nature of God's plan for salvation. Conclusion: While Tobijath may not be a prominent figure in biblical history, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the interconnectedness of God's people and the unfolding of His divine purposes. The name Tobijath, meaning "God is good," serves as a testament to the enduring goodness and faithfulness of God throughout the generations. Concordance Tobijath (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 17:8 Thesaurus Tobijath (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Tobijath (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 17:8 and with them the Levites, Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah ... /t/tobijath.htm - 6k Tobi'jah (3 Occurrences) Tobit Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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