Topical Encyclopedia Josaphias is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic period, a time when the Israelites were returning from Babylonian captivity and re-establishing their community in Jerusalem and the surrounding regions. The name "Josaphias" is derived from the Hebrew "Yehoshaphat," meaning "Yahweh has judged."Biblical References: 1. Ezra 8:10 · Josaphias is listed among the family heads who accompanied Ezra on the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. The passage reads: "of the sons of Shelomith, the son of Josiphiah, and with him 160 men." . This reference places Josaphias within the broader narrative of the return from exile, highlighting his role in the restoration of the Jewish community and religious practices. Historical and Theological Context: Josaphias lived during a pivotal era in Jewish history, marked by the return from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. This period was characterized by a renewed emphasis on the Law of Moses and the re-establishment of religious and social order. The inclusion of Josaphias in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the post-exilic community, as well as the collective effort to restore the nation of Israel. Theologically, the mention of Josaphias and others in these records serves to demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. The return from exile is seen as a fulfillment of prophetic words spoken by Jeremiah and other prophets, who foretold that God would bring His people back to their land after a period of judgment and exile. Genealogical Significance: Genealogies in the Bible often serve multiple purposes, including the validation of priestly and Levitical lines, the establishment of tribal identities, and the demonstration of God's providential care over generations. Josaphias' inclusion in the genealogical records of Ezra highlights the continuity of God's covenant with Israel and the importance of each individual's contribution to the community's spiritual and physical restoration. Cultural and Religious Impact: The returnees, including those associated with Josaphias, played a crucial role in re-establishing Jewish identity and religious practices. They were instrumental in rebuilding the Temple, reinstituting the sacrificial system, and renewing the covenant relationship with God. This period laid the foundation for the Second Temple Judaism, which would significantly influence Jewish life and thought leading up to the time of Christ. In summary, Josaphias is a figure whose mention in the biblical genealogies reflects the broader themes of restoration, covenant faithfulness, and the communal effort to rebuild and renew the people of God after a period of exile and judgment. His legacy is part of the rich tapestry of individuals who contributed to the re-establishment of Israel's religious and cultural identity in the post-exilic era. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JOSAPHIASjos-a-fi'-as (Iosaphias, 1 Esdras 8:36): Called "Josephiah" in Ezra 8:10. Thesaurus Josaphias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JOSAPHIAS. jos-a-fi'-as (Iosaphias, 1 Esdras 8:36): Called "Josephiah" in Ezra 8:10. ... /j/josaphias.htm - 6k Jose (1 Occurrence) Josaphat (1 Occurrence) Josiphiah (1 Occurrence) Salimoth Shelomith (9 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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