Josiphi'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. His name appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra, which details the efforts to rebuild the temple and restore the community in Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Josiphi'ah is found in Ezra 8:10. In this passage, Ezra lists the heads of the families who returned with him from Babylon to Jerusalem during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia. The verse reads:

"of the sons of Bani, Shelomith son of Josiphiah, and with him 160 men;" (Ezra 8:10)

This brief mention indicates that Josiphi'ah was the father of Shelomith, who was a leader of a group of 160 men. These men were part of the larger assembly of Israelites who accompanied Ezra on the journey back to their homeland. The inclusion of Josiphi'ah's name in this genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage and leadership within the returning exilic community.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The return from exile was a significant event in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. The journey led by Ezra was one of several waves of returnees, and it played a crucial role in the religious and social reformation of the Jewish community. Leaders like Shelomith, the son of Josiphi'ah, were instrumental in organizing and guiding the people during this period of transition.

The mention of Josiphi'ah, though brief, highlights the importance of family heads in the post-exilic community. These leaders were responsible for maintaining the continuity of their family lines and ensuring the spiritual and physical well-being of their kin. The genealogical records in Ezra serve not only as historical documentation but also as a testament to the faithfulness of those who heeded God's call to return and rebuild.

Name Meaning and Significance:

The name Josiphi'ah is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often thought to be related to the name Joseph, which means "He will add" or "Jehovah has added." This connection may imply a sense of divine blessing or increase, fitting for a family head whose descendants played a role in the restoration of Israel.

In summary, Josiphi'ah, though mentioned only once in the Bible, represents the broader narrative of faith, leadership, and divine providence that characterizes the return from exile. His legacy is carried on through his son Shelomith and the men who journeyed with them, contributing to the re-establishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral homeland.Josiphi'ah (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 8:10
And of the sons of Shelomith, the son of Josiphiah; and with him a hundred and threescore males.
(See RSV)

Josiphi'ah (1 Occurrence)
Josiphi'ah. Josiphiah, Josiphi'ah. Jostle . Multi-Version Concordance
Josiphi'ah (1 Occurrence). Ezra 8:10 And of the sons of Shelomith ...
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Jostle (3 Occurrences)

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Josiphiah (1 Occurrence)

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