Boccas is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Old Testament Apocrypha. The name Boccas appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a period marked by the rebuilding of the Temple and the re-establishment of Jewish religious practices.

Biblical Context

In 1 Esdras 5:26, Boccas is listed among the leaders of the families who returned from the Babylonian exile under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. The passage reads: "The sons of Baanah, the sons of Bacbuc, the sons of Boccas, the sons of Sisera, the sons of Thamah." This enumeration is part of a larger genealogical record that details the families and individuals who participated in the return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding efforts.

Historical and Theological Significance

The mention of Boccas, though brief, is significant in the broader narrative of the Jewish return from exile. This period is a pivotal moment in Jewish history, as it marks the fulfillment of prophetic promises regarding the restoration of Israel. The returnees, including Boccas, played a crucial role in re-establishing the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland.

Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a demonstration of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. Despite the nation's previous disobedience and the resulting exile, God remained committed to His promises, allowing the people to return and rebuild. Figures like Boccas, though not extensively detailed in the biblical text, are part of this divine narrative of restoration and hope.

Genealogical Considerations

The genealogical lists in which Boccas appears serve multiple purposes. They provide a historical record of those who returned, affirming the continuity of the Jewish community from pre-exilic times. These lists also underscore the importance of family and tribal identity in maintaining the social and religious structure of Israel. For the post-exilic community, such records were vital in re-establishing land ownership, priestly duties, and other aspects of communal life.

Apocryphal Context

While Boccas is not mentioned in the canonical books of the Hebrew Bible, his inclusion in 1 Esdras highlights the value of apocryphal texts in providing additional historical and cultural insights. These texts, while not considered inspired Scripture by all Christian traditions, offer a broader understanding of the historical context surrounding the events described in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah.

Conclusion

Boccas, though a minor figure, represents the collective efforts of the Jewish people to restore their nation and faith after the Babylonian exile. His mention in 1 Esdras serves as a reminder of the many individuals who contributed to this significant period in biblical history.BOCCAS

bok'-as (Bokkas): A priest in the line of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2) called Bukki in Ezra 7:4 and Borith in 2 Esdras 1:2.

Boccas
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BOCCAS. bok'-as (Bokkas): A priest in the line
of Ezra (1 Esdras 8:2) called Bukki in Ezra 7:4 and Borith in 2 Esdras 1:2. ...
/b/boccas.htm - 6k

Bocheru (2 Occurrences)

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Borith
... Mentioned in the genealogical table which traces the descent of Esdras (Ezra) from
Aaron (2 Esdras 1:2). In 1 Esdras 8:2, his name appears as BOCCAS (which see ...
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Boaz's (1 Occurrence)

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Bukki (4 Occurrences)
... Aaron, in the line of Eleazar (1 Chronicles 6:5, 51), and ancestor of Ezra (Ezra
7:4). In 2 Esdras 1:2 the name appears as Borith, and in 1 Esdras 8:2 as Boccas...
/b/bukki.htm - 8k

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