Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Jaasu" is of Hebrew origin, and it is believed to mean "Jehovah makes" or "Jehovah creates." This reflects the common biblical theme of divine action and creation, emphasizing God's sovereignty and active role in the lives of His people. Biblical References: Jaasu is mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period, specifically in the book of Ezra. The reference to Jaasu is found in Ezra 10:37, where he is listed among those who had taken foreign wives and were called to put them away in accordance with the covenant renewal led by Ezra. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And among the descendants of Bani: Maadai, Amram, Uel, Benaiah, Bedeliah, Cheluhu, Vaniah, Meremoth, Eliashib, Mattaniah, Jaasu, Shimei, Shelemiah, Nathan, Adaiah, Machnadebai, Shashai, Sharai, Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah, Shallum, Amariah, and Joseph." Historical and Cultural Context: The mention of Jaasu occurs during a significant period in Israel's history, following the Babylonian exile. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple under the leadership of Zerubbabel, and later the spiritual reforms under Ezra and Nehemiah, marked a time of renewal and recommitment to the covenant with Yahweh. The issue of intermarriage with foreign women was a critical concern, as it was seen as a threat to the religious and cultural identity of the Israelites. Ezra's reforms aimed to restore purity and adherence to the Law of Moses, which included the dissolution of marriages that were contrary to the covenantal stipulations. Theological Significance: Jaasu's inclusion in the list of those who had taken foreign wives highlights the broader theological theme of faithfulness to God's commandments. The post-exilic community faced the challenge of maintaining their distinct identity as God's chosen people amidst surrounding pagan influences. The call to separate from foreign wives was not merely a social or ethnic issue but a deeply spiritual one, emphasizing the need for holiness and obedience to God's law. This narrative underscores the importance of covenant fidelity and the community's collective responsibility to uphold the standards set by God. Lessons and Applications: The account of Jaasu and others in Ezra 10 serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with God's will. It challenges believers to consider the influences in their own lives that may lead them away from a wholehearted commitment to God. The narrative encourages a return to biblical principles and a willingness to make difficult decisions in order to maintain spiritual integrity. It also highlights the role of community and leadership in guiding and supporting individuals in their walk with God. Related Entries: · Ezra · Post-Exilic Period · Intermarriage in the Old Testament · Covenant Renewal · Holiness and Separation International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JAASU; JASSAI; JAASAUja'-a-su (the Revised Version (British and American) and Kethibh, ya`asu, meaning uncertain); (the Revised Version margin and Qere, ya`asay), (the King James Version): In Ezra 10:37, one of those who had married foreign wives. Septuagint translates the consonantal text as a verb, kai epoiesan, "and they did." 1 Esdras 9:34 has "Eliasis." Strong's Hebrew 3299. Yaasav -- an Israelite... Yaasav. 3300 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Yaasav Phonetic Spelling: (yah-as-oo') Short Definition: Jaasu. ... NASB Word Usage Jaasu (1). Jaasu, an Israelite. ... /hebrew/3299.htm - 6k Thesaurus Jaasu (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JAASU; JASSAI; JAASAU. ...Jaasu (1 Occurrence). Ezra 10:37 Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasu, (WEB ASV BBE NAS NIV). ... /j/jaasu.htm - 7k Ja'asu (1 Occurrence) Jaasau (1 Occurrence) Jassai Ja-asi'el (1 Occurrence) Eliasis Mattenai (3 Occurrences) Mattaniah (16 Occurrences) Jaasai (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jaasu (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:37 Subtopics Related Terms |