Atipha is a name mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically in the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name appears in the book of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple and the city walls.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:16 : The name Atipha is found in the genealogical records of those who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. The passage lists the descendants of Atipha among the people of Israel who returned from captivity. The verse reads: "the descendants of Ater through Hezekiah, 98; the descendants of Atipha, 55."

2. Nehemiah 7:21 : Similarly, the book of Nehemiah, which recounts the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, also includes Atipha in its list of returnees. The verse states: "the descendants of Ater through Hezekiah, 98; the descendants of Atipha, 55."

Historical Context:

The return from Babylonian exile marks a significant period in Jewish history, as it represents the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land after seventy years of captivity, as prophesied by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:10). The lists of returnees, including the descendants of Atipha, underscore the continuity of the Israelite community and their commitment to reestablishing their religious and cultural identity in the Promised Land.

Theological Significance:

The inclusion of Atipha in the genealogical records highlights the importance of each family and individual in the collective effort to restore the nation of Israel. It reflects the biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, ensuring that even seemingly minor families are remembered and honored in the sacred narrative. The returnees' dedication to rebuilding the temple and the city walls is a testament to their faith and obedience to God's commands.

Cultural and Social Implications:

The mention of Atipha, along with other families, illustrates the diverse composition of the returning exiles. It suggests a community united by a shared history and purpose, despite the challenges of reestablishing their lives in a land that had been desolate for decades. The genealogical records serve as a reminder of the importance of heritage and identity in the Jewish faith, emphasizing the role of each family in the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan.

Conclusion:

While the name Atipha may not be prominent in the biblical narrative, its inclusion in the lists of returnees signifies the collective effort and unity of the Jewish people during a pivotal moment in their history. The descendants of Atipha, like many others, played a crucial role in the restoration of Israel, embodying the themes of faithfulness, perseverance, and hope that resonate throughout the Scriptures.ATIPHA

at'i-fa. See HATIPHA.

Atipha
Atipha. Athletics, Atipha. Atom . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ATIPHA.
at'i-fa. See HATIPHA. Athletics, Atipha. Atom . Reference Bible.
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Atom (1 Occurrence)

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Athletics (1 Occurrence)

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Hatipha (2 Occurrences)
... fa (chaTipha', "taken," "captive" (?)) The ancestral head of a family of Nethinim
that returned from Babylon (Ezra 2:54 Nehemiah 7:56 = "Atipha," APC 1Esdras 5 ...
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