Be'zai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. The name Be'zai appears in the genealogical records of those who returned to Judah under the leadership of Zerubbabel.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:17 : "the descendants of Be'zai, 323." This verse is part of a larger passage that lists the families and individuals who returned from exile. The mention of Be'zai here indicates that his descendants were among those who took part in the significant event of returning to their homeland to restore their community and religious practices.

2. Nehemiah 7:23 : "the descendants of Be'zai, 324." This verse is found in a parallel account to the one in Ezra, providing a similar list of returnees. The slight numerical discrepancy between the two accounts (323 in Ezra and 324 in Nehemiah) is a point of interest for biblical scholars, often attributed to variations in record-keeping or textual transmission over time.

Historical and Theological Context:

The return from Babylonian exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the re-establishment of Jewish life and worship in Jerusalem. The inclusion of Be'zai's descendants in the lists of returnees highlights the importance of family lineage and continuity in the Jewish community. Each family that returned played a role in the collective effort to rebuild and renew their covenant relationship with God.

The genealogical records in Ezra and Nehemiah serve not only as historical documentation but also as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people through exile and bringing them back to their promised land. The descendants of Be'zai, like many others, were part of the remnant that God used to restore His chosen nation.

Name Meaning and Significance:

The name Be'zai is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often associated with the idea of "contempt" or "despised." Despite the potentially negative connotation of the name, the inclusion of Be'zai's descendants in the return from exile underscores the biblical theme that God often uses those who are considered lowly or insignificant by worldly standards to accomplish His divine purposes.

Role in the Community:

The descendants of Be'zai, as part of the returning exiles, would have been involved in the communal efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, restore the Temple, and re-establish the religious and social structures of Jewish life. Their participation in these endeavors reflects their commitment to their faith and heritage, as well as their dedication to the collective mission of the Jewish people during this critical period.

In summary, Be'zai is a minor yet significant figure in the biblical narrative of the return from exile, representing the broader themes of restoration, faithfulness, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.Be'zai (3 Occurrences)

Ezra 2:17
The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty-three.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:23
The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty-four.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 10:18
Hodiah, Hashum, Bezai,
(See RSV)

Be'zai (3 Occurrences)
Be'zai. Bezai, Be'zai. Bezaleel . Multi-Version Concordance Be'zai (3 Occurrences).
Ezra 2:17 The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty-three. (See RSV). ...
/b/be'zai.htm - 6k

Bezaleel (9 Occurrences)

/b/bezaleel.htm - 9k

Bezai (2 Occurrences)

/b/bezai.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus