Topical Encyclopedia Jahzeiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra. His name, which can be translated to mean "Yahweh sees" or "Yahweh looks," reflects a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize the watchfulness and omniscience of God.Biblical Reference: Jahzeiah is mentioned in Ezra 10:15, during the account of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. This period was marked by efforts to restore the religious and social order according to the Law of Moses. A significant issue faced by the returning exiles was the intermarriage with foreign women, which was seen as a violation of the covenantal laws given to Israel. In Ezra 10:15, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Only Jonathan son of Asahel and Jahzeiah son of Tikvah opposed this, with Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levite supporting them." This verse highlights Jahzeiah's role in the opposition to the proposed solution for dealing with the intermarriages, which involved the sending away of foreign wives and their children. Context and Significance: The context of Jahzeiah's mention is crucial for understanding the religious and social dynamics of the post-exilic community. The returnees, led by figures like Ezra, were deeply concerned with maintaining the purity of the Israelite community and adhering strictly to the Mosaic Law. The intermarriage issue was not merely a social concern but a theological one, as it was believed to threaten the distinct identity and religious fidelity of the people of Israel. Jahzeiah, along with Jonathan son of Asahel, is noted for opposing the plan to send away the foreign wives. The text does not provide detailed reasons for their opposition, leaving room for interpretation. Some scholars suggest that their resistance could have been based on compassion for the families involved or a different understanding of how to apply the Law in this situation. Theological Implications: Jahzeiah's opposition highlights the diversity of thought and the presence of dissenting voices within the Jewish community during this critical period. It underscores the complexity of applying ancient laws to contemporary situations, a challenge that has resonated throughout the history of biblical interpretation. The mention of Jahzeiah in this context also serves as a reminder of the human element in the unfolding of divine plans. While the overarching narrative of Ezra focuses on the restoration of Israel's covenantal faithfulness, individuals like Jahzeiah remind readers that the path to such restoration was neither simple nor uncontested. Historical and Cultural Background: The post-exilic period was a time of rebuilding and re-establishing Jewish identity after the Babylonian exile. The returnees faced numerous challenges, including economic hardship, opposition from surrounding peoples, and the need to re-establish religious practices. The issue of intermarriage was particularly sensitive, as it touched on questions of identity, purity, and obedience to God's commandments. Jahzeiah's mention, though brief, provides insight into the broader social and religious debates of the time. It reflects the tensions between maintaining traditional religious practices and adapting to new circumstances, a theme that is recurrent throughout the history of Israel and the broader biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JAHZEIAHja-ze'-ya, ja'-ze-ya (yachzeyah, "Yah sees"): In Ezra 10:15, son of Tikvah, and a contemporary of Ezra. It is disputed whether he and Jonathan opposed or supported Ezra in the matter of prosecuting those who had married foreign wives = Ezekias, 1 Esdras 9:14, or Ezias. Strong's Hebrew 3167. Yachzeyah -- "Yah sees," an Israelite... "Yah sees," an Israelite. Transliteration: Yachzeyah Phonetic Spelling: (yakh-zeh-yaw') Short Definition: Jahzeiah. ... NASB Word Usage Jahzeiah (1). Jahaziah. ... /hebrew/3167.htm - 6k Thesaurus Jahzeiah (1 Occurrence)...JAHZEIAH. ja-ze'-ya, ja'-ze-ya (yachzeyah, "Yah sees"): In Ezra 10:15, son of Tikvah, and a contemporary of Ezra. ...Jahzeiah (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jahzeiah.htm - 7k Jahzei'ah (1 Occurrence) Tikvah (2 Occurrences) Opposed (23 Occurrences) Jahaziah (1 Occurrence) Jah'zeelites (1 Occurrence) Tikvath (1 Occurrence) Ezekias (2 Occurrences) Meshul'lum (2 Occurrences) As'ahel (17 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jahzeiah (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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