The Nephussim are a group mentioned in the genealogical records of the post-exilic community of Israel. They are listed among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel after the Babylonian exile. The Nethinim were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple, performing various duties to support the worship and rituals conducted there.

Biblical References:

The Nephussim are specifically mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles and the rebuilding of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem. In these records, the Nephussim are included in the lists of those who returned from Babylon:

· Ezra 2:50 : "the sons of Reaiah, the sons of Rezin, the sons of Nekoda, the sons of Gazzam, the sons of Uzza, the sons of Paseah, the sons of Besai, the sons of Asnah, the sons of Meunim, the sons of Nephussim,"

· Nehemiah 7:52 : "the sons of Besai, the sons of Meunim, the sons of Nephushesim,"

The slight variation in the name between "Nephussim" in Ezra and "Nephushesim" in Nehemiah is a common occurrence in ancient texts, where transliterations and spellings can vary.

Role and Significance:

The Nephussim, as part of the Nethinim, played a crucial role in the religious life of the post-exilic Jewish community. The Nethinim were originally appointed by King David and the leaders of Israel to assist the Levites (see 1 Chronicles 9:2). Their duties likely included tasks such as maintaining the temple grounds, preparing offerings, and other logistical support necessary for the daily operations of temple worship.

The inclusion of the Nephussim in the lists of returnees highlights the importance of restoring not only the physical structures of Jerusalem but also the religious and communal life of the Jewish people. The Nethinim, including the Nephussim, were essential in re-establishing the proper worship of Yahweh according to the Law of Moses.

Historical Context:

The return from exile and the rebuilding efforts were significant events in Jewish history, marking a period of renewal and rededication to the covenant with God. The Nephussim, along with other groups, contributed to the re-establishment of the temple services, which were central to Jewish identity and religious practice.

The mention of the Nephussim in these genealogical records underscores the continuity of the Jewish faith and the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people to their land. The careful documentation of these groups in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah reflects the importance of maintaining a record of those who participated in this pivotal moment in Israel's history.Nephussim (2 Occurrences)

Ezra 2:50
the children of Asnah, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephusim;
(See NIV)

Nehemiah 7:52
the children of Besai, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephishesim;
(See NIV)

Nephussim (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Nephussim (2 Occurrences). Ezra 2:50 the children of Asnah,
the children of Meunim, the children of Nephusim; (See NIV). ...
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Nephusim (1 Occurrence)

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Nepthalim (2 Occurrences)

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