Topical Encyclopedia Agia is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some Christian traditions but not in the canonical Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament. The name Agia appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a significant event in Jewish history that is more fully detailed in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah.Biblical Context In 1 Esdras 5:34, Agia is listed among the heads of families who returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem following the decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, which allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple. The passage reads: "The sons of Agia, sixty-six." This brief mention places Agia within the genealogical records that were important for establishing the continuity of the Jewish community and their rightful claim to their ancestral lands. Historical and Theological Significance The return from exile was a pivotal moment for the Jewish people, marking the end of the Babylonian Captivity and the beginning of the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. Leaders like Zerubbabel and Jeshua played crucial roles in this restoration, and the families listed, including that of Agia, represent the collective effort and faithfulness of the Jewish people in re-establishing their religious and cultural identity. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to His people, demonstrating His faithfulness and sovereignty. The inclusion of Agia's family in the list underscores the importance of each family and individual in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. It highlights the communal aspect of God's covenant with Israel, where each member has a role in the larger narrative of salvation history. Genealogical Records Genealogical records, such as those in which Agia is mentioned, served several purposes in the biblical narrative. They established legal and religious claims to land and heritage, ensured the purity of the priesthood and the people, and reinforced the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. These records were meticulously maintained and were vital for the re-establishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Cultural and Religious Identity The mention of Agia, though brief, contributes to the broader understanding of the Jewish community's efforts to maintain their cultural and religious identity during and after the exile. The returnees faced numerous challenges, including opposition from surrounding peoples and the daunting task of rebuilding the temple and the city walls. The perseverance and dedication of families like Agia's were instrumental in overcoming these obstacles and re-establishing a vibrant Jewish community centered around the worship of Yahweh. Conclusion While Agia is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, the mention of his family in the context of the return from exile highlights the collective faith and determination of the Jewish people during a critical period in their history. The brief reference to Agia serves as a reminder of the importance of every individual and family in the unfolding of God's plan and the restoration of His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AGIAa'-gi-a (Agia; the King James Version Hagia) = Hattil (Ezra 2:57 Nehemiah 7:59): The descendants of Abraham (sons of the servants of Solomon) returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem (1 Esdras 5:34). Greek 40. hagios -- sacred, holy ... see GREEK hagnos. see GREEK thalpo. (agia) -- 14 Occurrences. (agiai) -- 1 Occurrence. (agiais) -- 3 Occurrences. (agian) -- 6 Occurrences. (agias) -- 3 Occurrences ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/40.htm - 8k Library Quotations from the Lxx. In Early Christian Writings. Thesaurus Agia... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AGIA. a'-gi-a (Agia; the King James Version Hagia) = Hattil (Ezra 2:57 Nehemiah 7:59): The descendants ... /a/agia.htm - 6k Aghast (2 Occurrences) Agile (2 Occurrences) Hattil (2 Occurrences) Hagia Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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