Introduction:
Zebaim is a term found in the Bible that refers to a group of people or a location associated with the return of the exiles from Babylon. The name appears in the context of genealogical records and lists of those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah after the Babylonian captivity. The term is significant in understanding the post-exilic community and the restoration of Israel.

Biblical References:
The primary reference to Zebaim is found in the book of Ezra. In Ezra 2:57, the name appears in a list of the descendants of the servants of Solomon who returned from exile: "the descendants of Shephatiah, the descendants of Hattil, the descendants of Pochereth-hazzebaim, and the descendants of Ami." . This passage is part of a larger genealogical record that details the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel.

Historical Context:
The mention of Zebaim in the context of the return from Babylonian exile highlights the importance of genealogical records for the Jewish community. These records were crucial for re-establishing tribal and familial identities, as well as for determining the rightful claims to land and positions within the restored community. The returnees were keen to preserve their heritage and lineage, which had been disrupted by the exile.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
The inclusion of Zebaim in the genealogical lists underscores the comprehensive nature of the restoration efforts. It reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to bring His people back to their land, as prophesied by Jeremiah and other prophets. The return from exile was not just a physical relocation but a spiritual renewal and a re-establishment of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Interpretation and Analysis:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Zebaim and similar groups in the post-exilic records serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the continuity of His covenant with Israel. It also illustrates the inclusivity of the restoration process, where even those who were once considered servants or of lower status were given a place in the renewed community. This reflects the broader biblical theme of redemption and restoration.

Conclusion:
While Zebaim may not be a prominent figure or location in biblical narratives, its mention in the genealogical records of Ezra provides valuable insight into the post-exilic period. It highlights the meticulous efforts to restore the community of Israel and the fulfillment of divine promises. The reference to Zebaim serves as a reminder of the importance of identity, heritage, and the faithfulness of God in the history of His people.Zebaim

(the gazelles), mentioned in the catalogue of the families of "Solomon's slaves" who returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59)

(Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59). "Pochereth of Zebaim" should be read as in the Revised Version, "Pochereth-hazzebaim" ("snaring the antelopes"), probably the name of some hunter. ZEBAIM

ze-be'-im.

See POCHERETH-HAZZEBAIM.

6380. Pokereth Hatstsebayim -- "bindress of the gazelles," head of ...
... feminine of an unused root (meaning to entrap) and plural of tsbiy; trap of gazelles;
Pokereth-Tsebajim, one of the "servants of Solomon" -- Pochereth of Zebaim ...
/hebrew/6380.htm - 6kZebaim (2 Occurrences)
... "Pochereth of Zebaim" should be read as in the Revised Version, "Pochereth-hazzebaim"
("snaring the antelopes"), probably the name of some hunter. Int. ...ZEBAIM. ...
/z/zebaim.htm - 7k

Zebedee (11 Occurrences)

/z/zebedee.htm - 11k

Zebah (9 Occurrences)

/z/zebah.htm - 13k

Pocherethhazzebaim
... King James Version has "Pochereth of Zebaim" in Ezra, but Ryle (Cambridge
Bible, 235) notes that "of" is not in the 1611 edition. ...
/p/pocherethhazzebaim.htm - 7k

Pochereth-hazzebaim (2 Occurrences)
... King James Version has "Pochereth of Zebaim" in Ezra, but Ryle (Cambridge Bible,
235) notes that "of" is not in the 1611 edition. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/p/pochereth-hazzebaim.htm - 7k

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