Topical Encyclopedia Maadiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period. He is listed among the priests who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel following the Babylonian exile. The name Maadiah appears in the book of Nehemiah, which provides a record of the families and individuals who played significant roles in the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community.Biblical Reference: Maadiah is mentioned in Nehemiah 12:5, where he is listed among the priests: "Meraiah, Malluch, Hattush, Shecaniah, Rehum, Meremoth, Iddo, Ginnethon, Abijah, Mijamin, Maadiah, Bilgah, Shemaiah, Joiarib, Jedaiah, Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, and Jedaiah. These were the leaders of the priests and their associates in the days of Jeshua." (Nehemiah 12:3-7) Historical Context: The return from Babylonian exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the beginning of the Second Temple period. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and later Nehemiah and Ezra, the Jewish people undertook the monumental task of rebuilding the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem. This period was characterized by a renewed commitment to the Mosaic Law and the reestablishment of religious practices that had been neglected during the exile. Role and Significance: As a priest, Maadiah would have been responsible for performing religious duties and rituals in the newly rebuilt Temple. The priests played a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual life of the community, offering sacrifices, and teaching the Law to the people. The inclusion of Maadiah in the list of priests underscores the importance of the priestly class in the restoration efforts and the continuity of worship practices. Name Meaning: The name Maadiah is believed to mean "Yahweh is an ornament" or "Yahweh is a witness," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names, which often include a reference to God. This naming convention highlights the deep spiritual connection and identity of the Jewish people with their God, Yahweh. Theological Implications: The mention of Maadiah and other priests in the book of Nehemiah serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people and restoring them to their land. It also emphasizes the importance of religious leadership and the centrality of worship in the life of the covenant community. The priests, including Maadiah, were instrumental in guiding the people back to a life of obedience and devotion to God, as outlined in the Torah. In summary, Maadiah represents the continuity of the priestly tradition and the reestablishment of religious order in post-exilic Jerusalem. His inclusion in the biblical record highlights the collective effort of the Jewish community to restore their identity and relationship with God after a period of displacement and hardship. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Maadiahpleasantness; the testimony of the Lord Smith's Bible Dictionary Maadiahone of the priests who returned with Zerubbabel, (Nehemiah 12:5) elsewhere (ver. (Nehemiah 12:17)) called MOADIAH. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAADIAHma-a-di'-a (ma`adhyah, "whose ornament is Jah"): A priest who returned with Zerubbabel (Nehemiah 12:5). The name also occurs in the form "Moadiah" (Nehemiah 12:17). Strong's Hebrew 4573. Maadyah -- an Israelite priest... an Israelite priest. Transliteration: Maadyah Phonetic Spelling: (mah-ad-yaw') Short Definition: Maadiah. ... priest NASB Word Usage Maadiah (1), Moadiah (1). ... /hebrew/4573.htm - 6k Thesaurus Maadiah (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAADIAH. ...Maadiah (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 12:5 Mijamin, Maadiah, Bilgah, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS). ... /m/maadiah.htm - 7k Ma-adi'ah (1 Occurrence) Moadiah (2 Occurrences) Miamin (2 Occurrences) Mi'jamin (3 Occurrences) Mijamin (4 Occurrences) Ma-ada'i (1 Occurrence) Bilgah (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Maadiah (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 12:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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