Topical Encyclopedia Hattil is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is identified as one of the heads of the families of the temple servants who returned to Jerusalem and Judah with Zerubbabel following the Babylonian exile. The name "Hattil" is found in the genealogical records that detail the returnees who were committed to restoring the worship and service of the temple in Jerusalem.Biblical References: 1. Ezra 2:42 : "The descendants of the gatekeepers: the descendants of Shallum, Ater, Talmon, Akkub, Hattil, and Shobai, 139 in all." 2. Nehemiah 7:45 : "The gatekeepers: the descendants of Shallum, Ater, Talmon, Akkub, Hattil, and Shobai, 138 in all." In these passages, Hattil is listed among the gatekeepers, a group responsible for the security and proper functioning of the temple. The gatekeepers played a crucial role in maintaining the sanctity and order of the temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. Historical Context: The return from Babylonian exile marked a significant period in Jewish history, as it involved the rebuilding of the temple and the re-establishment of religious practices. The mention of Hattil and his descendants underscores the importance of the temple servants in this restoration process. These individuals were vital in re-establishing the worship and rituals that were central to Jewish identity and faith. Role and Significance: Hattil's inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the continuity of the Levitical and priestly functions despite the disruption caused by the exile. The gatekeepers, including Hattil, were essential in preserving the holiness of the temple, which was the center of Jewish worship and community life. Their duties included opening and closing the gates, safeguarding the temple treasures, and ensuring that the temple precincts were kept pure. Theological Implications: The return of Hattil and his family signifies God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people and restoring them to their land. It reflects the fulfillment of prophetic promises that God would bring His people back to Jerusalem and re-establish His covenant with them. The role of the gatekeepers, including Hattil, in the temple service is a testament to the importance of order, purity, and dedication in worship, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. Hattil's mention, though brief, serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to rebuild and maintain the spiritual life of the community. It underscores the value of each individual's contribution to the larger purpose of honoring and serving God. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HattilInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia HATTILhat'-il (chaTTil): A company of servants of Solomon appearing in the post-exilic literature (Ezra 2:57 Nehemiah 7:59). Same called "Agia" in 1 Esdras 5:34. Strong's Hebrew 2411. Chattil -- an Israelite... 2410, 2411. Chattil. 2412 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Chattil Phonetic Spelling: (khat-teel') Short Definition: Hattil. ... NASB Word Usage Hattil (2). Hattil ... /hebrew/2411.htm - 5k Thesaurus Hattil (2 Occurrences)...HATTIL. hat'-il (chaTTil): A company of servants of Solomon appearing in the post-exilic literature (Ezra 2:57 Nehemiah 7:59). ...Hattil (2 Occurrences). ... /h/hattil.htm - 7k Zebaim (2 Occurrences) Pochereth (2 Occurrences) Po'chereth-hazzeba'im (2 Occurrences) Pochereth-hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) Pokereth-hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) Shephati'ah (12 Occurrences) Shephatiah (13 Occurrences) Hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) Hattush (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hattil (2 Occurrences)Ezra 2:57 Nehemiah 7:59 Subtopics Related Terms Po'chereth-hazzeba'im (2 Occurrences) Pochereth-hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) |