The Dehites are a group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period. They are listed among the descendants of the servants of Solomon who returned from the Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel. The reference to the Dehites can be found in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and Judah to rebuild the temple and restore the community.

Biblical Reference:

The primary mention of the Dehites is found in Ezra 2:47: "the descendants of Giddel, the descendants of Gahar, the descendants of Reaiah, the descendants of Rezin, the descendants of Nekoda, the descendants of Gazzam, the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah, the descendants of Besai, the descendants of Asnah, the descendants of Meunim, the descendants of Nephusim, the descendants of Bakbuk, the descendants of Hakupha, the descendants of Harhur, the descendants of Bazluth, the descendants of Mehida, the descendants of Harsha, the descendants of Barkos, the descendants of Sisera, the descendants of Temah, the descendants of Neziah, and the descendants of Hatipha."

The Dehites are included in this list, which enumerates the families of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants. The Nethinim were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple, performing various duties necessary for the maintenance and operation of the temple worship.

Historical Context:

The return from exile marked a significant period in Jewish history, as it represented the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land after seventy years of captivity in Babylon. The Dehites, as part of the Nethinim, played a crucial role in the re-establishment of temple worship, which was central to the religious and communal life of the Jewish people.

The Nethinim, including the Dehites, were likely descendants of non-Israelite groups who had been integrated into the service of the temple during the reign of Solomon. Their inclusion in the post-exilic community underscores the continuity of temple service and the importance of maintaining the traditions and practices that had been established in the time of Solomon.

Theological Significance:

The mention of the Dehites and other groups in the genealogical records of Ezra highlights the faithfulness of God in preserving a remnant of His people and the structures necessary for worship. It also reflects the inclusive nature of God's covenant community, which, while centered on the descendants of Abraham, allowed for the incorporation of other peoples who were dedicated to the service of the Lord.

The Dehites, as part of the Nethinim, remind us of the diverse roles within the body of believers and the importance of each member in contributing to the worship and service of God. Their presence in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who serve faithfully, often behind the scenes, in the fulfillment of God's purposes.Dehites (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 4:9
then wrote Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions, the Dinaites, and the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehaites, the Elamites,
(See JPS)

Dehites (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Dehites (1 Occurrence). Ezra 4:9 then wrote Rehum
the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest ...
/d/dehites.htm - 6k

Dehort

/d/dehort.htm - 6k

Dehavites (1 Occurrence)

/d/dehavites.htm - 7k

Shim'shai (4 Occurrences)
... the Dinites, and the Apharesattechites, the Tarpelites, the Apharesites, the Archevites,
the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehites, the Elamites, (See RSV ...
/s/shim'shai.htm - 7k

Commanding (79 Occurrences)
... the Dinites, and the Apharesattechites, the Tarpelites, the Apharesites, the Archevites,
the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehites, the Elamites, (See NIV ...
/c/commanding.htm - 31k

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