Gispa is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. He is noted for his role during the period of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Gispa is identified as one of the leaders who played a part in the administration and governance of the city during this critical time of restoration and renewal for the Jewish people.

Biblical Reference:

Gispa is mentioned in Nehemiah 11:21: "But the temple servants lived on the hill of Ophel, and Ziha and Gispa were in charge of the temple servants."

Historical Context:

The book of Nehemiah provides a detailed account of the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. This period, which took place in the 5th century BC, was marked by significant challenges, including opposition from surrounding peoples and the need to reestablish religious and social order among the returning exiles. Nehemiah, serving as the governor of Judah under the Persian king Artaxerxes, led the efforts to fortify the city and restore its spiritual and communal life.

Role and Responsibilities:

Gispa, along with Ziha, is noted for his responsibility over the temple servants, also known as the Nethinim. These individuals were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. The mention of Gispa in this administrative capacity highlights the organized structure that was necessary to support the functioning of the temple and the religious life of the community. The temple servants played a crucial role in maintaining the daily operations and rituals that were central to Jewish worship and identity.

Significance:

The inclusion of Gispa in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of leadership and organization in the successful reestablishment of Jerusalem. His role, though briefly mentioned, reflects the collaborative efforts required to rebuild not only the physical structures of the city but also the spiritual and communal foundations of the Jewish people. The mention of Gispa and others in similar positions serves as a testament to the diverse contributions of many individuals in the restoration process.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of Gispa and his contemporaries illustrates the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to restore His people. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple is seen as a fulfillment of prophetic promises and a demonstration of God's covenantal faithfulness. Leaders like Gispa were instrumental in the realization of these divine purposes, serving as examples of dedication and service in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel.Gispa

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Gispa

(caress), one of the overseers of the Nethinim, in "the Ophel," after the return from captivity. (Nehemiah 11:21)

1658. Gishpa -- one of the Nethinim
... Word Usage Gishpa (1). Gispa. Of uncertain derivation; Gishpa, an Israelite --
Gispa. 1657, 1658. Gishpa. 1659 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/1658.htm - 5kGispa (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gispa (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 11:21 But the Nethinims
dwelt in Ophel: and Ziha and Gispa were over the Nethinims. (KJV DBY WBS). ...
/g/gispa.htm - 6k

Gishpa (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GISHPA. gish'-pa (the King James Version Gispa;
gishpa'): An officer of the Nethinim (Nehemiah 11:21). ...
/g/gishpa.htm - 7k

Nethinims (15 Occurrences)
... Solomon's servants. (KJV WBS). Nehemiah 11:21 But the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel:
and Ziha and Gispa were over the Nethinims. (KJV WBS). ...
/n/nethinims.htm - 11k

Gittahhepher (1 Occurrence)

/g/gittahhepher.htm - 7k

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