Topical Encyclopedia Jassai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the genealogical records of the post-exilic community. His name appears in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, a significant period in Israel's history when the Jewish people were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia.Biblical Reference: Jassai is mentioned in the Book of Ezra, which details the return of the exiles and the rebuilding efforts. In Ezra 10:37, Jassai is listed among those who had taken foreign wives, an issue that was addressed by Ezra as he sought to restore the community's faithfulness to the Mosaic Law. The Berean Standard Bible records this as follows: "Moreover, there were from the descendants of Immer: Hanani and Zebadiah; from the descendants of Harim: Maaseiah, Elijah, Shemaiah, Jehiel, and Uzziah; from the descendants of Pashhur: Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethanel, Jozabad, and Elasah." (Ezra 10:20-22) Jassai is part of this list, indicating his involvement in the community's transgressions and subsequent repentance. Historical and Theological Context: The mention of Jassai occurs during a time of significant religious reform. The return from exile was not only a physical journey but also a spiritual renewal for the Israelites. Ezra, a scribe and priest, was instrumental in leading the people back to adherence to the Law of Moses. The issue of intermarriage with foreign women was seen as a threat to the purity of the Israelite community and their covenant relationship with God. Ezra's reforms included the dissolution of these marriages to preserve the distinct identity and religious practices of the Jewish people. Jassai's inclusion in the list of those who had taken foreign wives highlights the widespread nature of the issue and the communal effort required to address it. The narrative underscores the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the need for repentance and correction when the community strays from the prescribed path. Name Meaning and Significance: The name Jassai is of Hebrew origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively known. It is one of many names listed in the genealogies and records of the post-exilic period, serving as a testament to the individuals who played a role in the restoration of Israel. Names in the Bible often carry significant meaning, reflecting the character or destiny of the individual. While the specific meaning of Jassai's name is not clear, his inclusion in the biblical record signifies his part in the collective history of the Jewish people. Lessons and Reflections: The account of Jassai and others in Ezra 10 serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands. It illustrates the challenges faced by the returning exiles in maintaining their distinct identity amidst surrounding cultures. The narrative encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to seek His guidance in matters of personal and communal life. The account of Jassai and the reforms led by Ezra continue to resonate as a call to holiness and dedication to God's will. 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." Thesaurus Jassai... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JAASU; JASSAI; JAASAU. ja'-a-su (the Revised Version (British and American) and Kethibh, ya`asu, meaning ... /j/jassai.htm - 6k Jaasu (1 Occurrence) Jaasau (1 Occurrence) Jasubus Jaspis Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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