Amashai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period. His name, which can be translated to mean "burden of the Lord" or "the people of the Lord," reflects a common practice in Hebrew culture of embedding theological significance within personal names.

Biblical References:

Amashai is referenced in the Book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the community of Israel after the Babylonian exile. In Nehemiah 11:13, Amashai is listed among the priests who resided in Jerusalem. The verse states: "and his associates, heads of families—1,760 mighty men for the work of the service of the house of God." (Nehemiah 11:13). This passage highlights Amashai's role as a leader among the priests, emphasizing his involvement in the religious and communal restoration efforts.

Genealogical Context:

Amashai is identified as a descendant of Immer, one of the priestly families. The lineage of Immer is significant, as it connects Amashai to a long tradition of priestly service. The priests played a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual life of the Israelite community, particularly during the challenging period of rebuilding after the exile.

Role and Significance:

As a priest, Amashai would have been responsible for various religious duties, including offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and leading the people in worship. His inclusion in the list of those residing in Jerusalem underscores the importance of re-establishing a strong priestly presence in the city, which was central to the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people.

The mention of Amashai as a "mighty man for the work of the service of the house of God" suggests that he was not only a spiritual leader but also a person of considerable influence and capability. This description indicates that Amashai, along with his fellow priests, played a vital role in the physical and spiritual rebuilding of Jerusalem, contributing to the re-establishment of the temple services and the community's religious life.

Historical and Theological Implications:

The post-exilic period was a time of significant transition and renewal for the Jewish people. Figures like Amashai were instrumental in this process, as they helped to restore the religious practices and communal structures that had been disrupted by the exile. The emphasis on priestly leadership in the Book of Nehemiah reflects the centrality of worship and adherence to the Law in the identity and survival of the Jewish community.

Amashai's presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of faithful leadership and commitment to God's service, particularly in times of rebuilding and renewal. His role in the restoration of Jerusalem highlights the interconnectedness of spiritual and communal life in the biblical worldview, where the health of the community is closely tied to its faithfulness to God.Amashai

the people's gift

The son of Azareel, appointed by Nehemiah to reside at Jerusalem and do the work of the temple (Nehemiah 11:13). 6023. Amashsay -- an Israelite priest
... priest NASB Word Usage Amashsai (1). Amashai. Probably from amac; burdensome; Amashsay,
an Israelite -- Amashai. see HEBREW amac. 6022, 6023. Amashsay. 6024 ...
/hebrew/6023.htm - 6kAmashai (1 Occurrence)
... 11:13). Multi-Version Concordance Amashai (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 11:13
And his brethren, chief of the fathers, two hundred forty ...
/a/amashai.htm - 6k

Meshillemith (1 Occurrence)
... retribution"): A priest, son of Immer, ancestor, according to 1 Chronicles 9:12,
of Adaiah and Pashhur, and according to Nehemiah 11:13, of Amashai. ...
/m/meshillemith.htm - 7k

Azareel (6 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 11:13 And his brethren, chief of the fathers, two hundred forty and two:
and Amashai the son of Azareel, the son of Ahasai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/a/azareel.htm - 8k

Amashsai (1 Occurrence)

/a/amashsai.htm - 7k

Amasa's (1 Occurrence)

/a/amasa's.htm - 6k

Azarel (6 Occurrences)
... Bani (Ezra 10:41). (5) The father of Amashai, a priest who dwelt in Jerusalem
after the Exile (Nehemiah 11:13). (6) A priest's son ...
/a/azarel.htm - 9k

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