Overview:
Jishijah is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic community, specifically among the Levites who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The name "Jishijah" is believed to mean "Yahweh will lend" or "Yahweh supports," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names that incorporate elements of God's name.

Biblical References:
Jishijah is mentioned in the Book of 1 Chronicles, which provides a detailed account of the genealogies of Israel. The specific reference to Jishijah can be found in 1 Chronicles 24:21, where he is listed among the descendants of the Levites. The Berean Standard Bible renders this passage as follows:

1 Chronicles 24:21 : "Concerning Rehabiah: of the sons of Rehabiah, the first was Isshiah."

In this context, Jishijah is identified as a descendant of Rehabiah, who was a Levite. The Levites held a special role in Israelite society, being set apart for religious duties and the service of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple in Jerusalem.

Historical and Religious Context:
The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the continuity of the Levitical priesthood and the religious heritage of Israel following the Babylonian exile. The mention of Jishijah, though brief, underscores the importance of maintaining the lineage and duties of the Levites, who were responsible for the spiritual leadership and ritual practices of the nation.

The post-exilic period was a time of restoration and rebuilding for the Jewish people. The returnees from Babylon were tasked with re-establishing their religious and cultural identity, which included the reorganization of the priestly and Levitical orders. Figures like Jishijah, though not prominent in biblical narratives, represent the faithful continuation of these sacred duties.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Jishijah in the genealogical records highlights the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and their religious institutions. The Levites, as descendants of Levi, were chosen by God to serve in His sanctuary, and their genealogies affirm the divine order and purpose for their lives.

The name Jishijah itself, meaning "Yahweh will lend" or "Yahweh supports," reflects a deep trust in God's provision and sustenance. It serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God promises to uphold and support those who are dedicated to His service.

Conclusion:
While Jishijah may not be a central figure in biblical history, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Levitical priesthood and the faithfulness of God in preserving His chosen servants. Through individuals like Jishijah, the continuity of worship and religious practice was maintained, ensuring that the spiritual life of Israel could flourish in the post-exilic era.Jishijah (6 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 7:3
And the sons of Uzzi: Jizrahiah; and the sons of Jizrahiah: Michael, and Obadiah, and Joel, and Jishijah, five; all of them chief men.
(DBY)

1 Chronicles 12:6
Elkanah, and Jishijah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites;
(DBY)

1 Chronicles 23:20
The sons of Uzziel: Micah the head, and Jishijah the second.
(DBY)

1 Chronicles 24:21
Of Rehabiah, of the sons of Rehabiah, the head was Jishijah.
(DBY)

1 Chronicles 24:25
the brother of Micah was Jishijah; of the sons of Jishijah, Zechariah.
(DBY)

Ezra 10:31
And the children of Harim: Eliezer, Jishijah, Malchijah, Shemaiah, Simeon,
(DBY)

Jishijah (6 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Jishijah (6 Occurrences). ... (DBY). 1 Chronicles 12:6 Elkanah,
and Jishijah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korahites; (DBY). ...
/j/jishijah.htm - 7k

Jishma (1 Occurrence)

/j/jishma.htm - 6k

Jishi (4 Occurrences)

/j/jishi.htm - 7k

Jizrahiah (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 7:3 And the sons of Uzzi: Jizrahiah; and the sons of Jizrahiah: Michael,
and Obadiah, and Joel, and Jishijah, five; all of them chief men. (DBY). ...
/j/jizrahiah.htm - 7k

Simeon (48 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Ezra 10:31 And the children of
Harim: Eliezer, Jishijah, Malchijah, Shemaiah, Simeon, (DBY). ...
/s/simeon.htm - 35k

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