The Apharesachites are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. They are referenced in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

The Apharesachites are mentioned in Ezra 4:9. The Berean Standard Bible reads: "From Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates—the judges and officials over Tripolis, Persia, Erech, Babylon, Susa (that is, the Elamites), and the rest of the nations whom the great and noble Osnappar deported and settled in the cities of Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates."

Historical Context:

The Apharesachites were among the peoples settled in Samaria and the surrounding regions by the Assyrian king Osnappar (commonly identified with Ashurbanipal) after the deportation of the native Israelite population. This resettlement was part of the Assyrian policy of population displacement, aimed at reducing the likelihood of rebellion by mixing different ethnic groups.

Role in the Book of Ezra:

In the book of Ezra, the Apharesachites, along with other groups, are depicted as adversaries to the Jewish people who had returned from exile. They opposed the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, fearing the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in the region. This opposition is part of a broader narrative in Ezra 4, where various groups write to King Artaxerxes of Persia, urging him to halt the construction efforts.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

The Apharesachites, as part of the mixed population in Samaria, represent the syncretistic religious practices that developed in the region. The intermingling of different peoples led to a blending of religious traditions, which was often at odds with the monotheistic worship of Yahweh as practiced by the returning Jewish exiles. This tension is a recurring theme in the post-exilic books of the Old Testament, highlighting the challenges faced by the Jewish community in maintaining their distinct religious identity.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Apharesachites and their opposition to the rebuilding of the Temple underscores the theme of faithfulness to God's covenant. The returning exiles are portrayed as striving to restore proper worship and adherence to the Law, despite external pressures and opposition. This narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in faith and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Conclusion:

The Apharesachites, though a minor group in the biblical narrative, play a significant role in illustrating the broader challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period. Their opposition to the rebuilding efforts highlights the complex socio-political and religious landscape of the time, as well as the enduring commitment of the Jewish people to their covenant with God.Apharesachites (2 Occurrences)

Ezra 5:6
The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and Shethar-bozenai, and his companions the Apharsachites, who were beyond the River, sent unto Darius the king;
(See JPS)

Ezra 6:6
Now therefore, Tattenai, governor beyond the River, Shethar-bozenai, and your companions the Apharsachites, who are beyond the River, be ye far from thence:
(See JPS)

Apharesachites (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Apharesachites (2 Occurrences). Ezra 5:6 The
copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the ...
/a/apharesachites.htm - 7k

Tat'tenai (4 Occurrences)
... Ezra 5:6 The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and
Shethar-bozenai, and his companions the Apharesachites, who were beyond the ...
/t/tat'tenai.htm - 7k

She'thar-boz'enai (4 Occurrences)
... Ezra 5:6 The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and
Shethar-bozenai, and his companions the Apharesachites, who were beyond the ...
/s/she'thar-boz'enai.htm - 7k

Governors (43 Occurrences)
... Ezra 5:6 The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and
Shethar-bozenai, and his companions the Apharesachites, who were beyond the ...
/g/governors.htm - 21k

Apharesattechites (1 Occurrence)

/a/apharesattechites.htm - 6k

Aphaerema

/a/aphaerema.htm - 6k

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