Amashsai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is identified as a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service. The name "Amashsai" is believed to mean "burdensome" or "the people will be saved," reflecting the dual nature of the Levites' responsibilities and their role in the spiritual salvation of Israel.

Biblical References:

Amashsai is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the community after the Babylonian exile. In Nehemiah 11:13, Amashsai is listed among the priests who resided in Jerusalem:

"and his brothers, heads of families—242 in all. Amashsai son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth, the son of Immer," (Nehemiah 11:13).

This passage places Amashsai within the genealogical context of the priestly line, specifically the family of Immer, which was one of the priestly divisions established by King David (1 Chronicles 24:14). The mention of Amashsai in this list underscores the importance of the priestly families in maintaining the religious and social order of the restored community in Jerusalem.

Historical and Religious Context:

The period following the Babylonian exile was marked by significant efforts to reestablish the religious practices and cultural identity of the Jewish people. The Levites, including Amashsai, played a crucial role in this process. They were responsible for teaching the Law, leading worship, and ensuring the proper conduct of temple rituals. The presence of Levites in Jerusalem was essential for the spiritual renewal of the nation.

Amashsai's inclusion in the list of priests residing in Jerusalem highlights the emphasis on continuity and the preservation of the priestly lineage. The genealogical record serves to authenticate the legitimacy of the priestly service and the adherence to the traditions established by their forefathers.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Amashsai and other Levites in the post-exilic records reflects the enduring covenant between God and the people of Israel. The Levites were chosen by God to serve as mediators between Him and the Israelites, a role that underscored the holiness and separateness required of those who ministered before the Lord.

Amashsai's role as a priest in Jerusalem symbolizes the restoration of proper worship and the reestablishment of the covenant community. His presence in the city is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant and fulfilling His promises to His people.

Conclusion:

While Amashsai is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the Book of Nehemiah serves as a reminder of the critical role played by the Levites in the spiritual life of Israel. His inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of maintaining the priestly lineage and the continuity of worship practices essential to the identity and faith of the Jewish people.AMASHSAI

a-mash'-si `amashcay, probably a textual error for `amashay; the ("s") implies a reading `-M-C-Y, based on a mistaken derivation from '-M-C. The original reading may have been `ammishay; compare AMASAI): Amashsai is a priestly name in the post-exilic list of inhabitants of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 11:13; Maasai, 1 Chronicles 9:12); the reading in Chronicles is ma`asay, the King James Version "Maasiai," the Revised Version (British and American) "Maasai."

6023. Amashsay -- an Israelite priest
... an Israelite priest. Transliteration: Amashsay Phonetic Spelling: (am-ash-sah'-ee)
Short Definition: Amashsai. ... priest NASB Word Usage Amashsai (1). Amashai. ...
/hebrew/6023.htm - 6kAmashsai (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AMASHSAI. a-mash'-si `amashcay ... American) "Maasai.".
Multi-Version Concordance Amashsai (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 11 ...
/a/amashsai.htm - 7k

Amash'sai (1 Occurrence)
Amash'sai. Amashsai, Amash'sai. Amasiah . Multi-Version Concordance Amash'sai
(1 Occurrence). ... Amashsai, Amash'sai. Amasiah . Reference Bible.
/a/amash'sai.htm - 6k

242 (1 Occurrence)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brothers, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty-two;
and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/num/242.htm - 6k

Immer (10 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brothers, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty-two;
and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/i/immer.htm - 10k

Forty-two (15 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brothers, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty-two;
and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/f/forty-two.htm - 10k

Meshillemoth (2 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brothers, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty-two;
and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/m/meshillemoth.htm - 8k

Meshil'lemoth (2 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brethren, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty and
two; and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/m/meshil'lemoth.htm - 7k

Ahazai (1 Occurrence)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brethren, heads of fathers, two hundred forty and two; and
Amashsai son of Azareel, son of Ahazai, son of Meshillemoth, son of Immer ...
/a/ahazai.htm - 6k

Ah'zai (1 Occurrence)
... Nehemiah 11:13 and his brothers, chiefs of fathers' houses, two hundred forty-two;
and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth ...
/a/ah'zai.htm - 6k

Amashai (1 Occurrence)

/a/amashai.htm - 6k

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