Binnui, identified as the son of Bani, is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. His name appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 10:38 · Binnui is listed among those who had taken foreign wives, an action contrary to the Mosaic Law, which prohibited intermarriage with pagan nations to prevent idolatry and cultural assimilation. The verse states: "Bani, Binnui, Shimei," indicating his involvement in this transgression. The context of this passage is a public confession and a covenant renewal led by Ezra, where the Israelites pledged to put away their foreign wives to restore their covenant relationship with God.

2. Nehemiah 10:14 · Binnui is mentioned as one of the leaders who sealed the covenant. The verse reads: "The leaders of the people: Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani," with Binnui being part of this significant group. This covenant was a reaffirmation of the people's commitment to follow God's laws, including the observance of the Sabbath, the sabbatical year, and the prohibition of intermarriage with foreign nations.

3. Nehemiah 12:8 · Binnui is also noted as a Levite who participated in the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. The verse states: "The Levites: Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and Mattaniah, who was in charge of the songs of thanksgiving, he and his brothers." This highlights his role in the religious and communal life of the restored Jewish community.

Historical and Theological Context:

Binnui's involvement in the events recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah reflects the broader themes of repentance, restoration, and covenant renewal that characterize the post-exilic period. The return from exile was not merely a physical restoration but also a spiritual reformation, as the Jewish community sought to reestablish their identity as God's chosen people by adhering strictly to the Law of Moses.

The issue of intermarriage, which Binnui was initially involved in, was a significant concern for the post-exilic community. It represented a potential threat to the purity of Israel's faith and the distinctiveness of their covenant relationship with Yahweh. The leaders, including Ezra and Nehemiah, took decisive action to address this issue, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments.

Binnui's later participation in the sealing of the covenant and the dedication of the wall signifies his commitment to the community's spiritual renewal. As a Levite, his role would have been crucial in leading worship and teaching the Law, contributing to the religious education and spiritual formation of the people.

Significance:

Binnui's account is a testament to the transformative power of repentance and the importance of leadership in guiding a community back to faithfulness. His journey from transgression to leadership in covenant renewal illustrates the themes of redemption and restoration that are central to the biblical narrative. Through figures like Binnui, the post-exilic community was able to rebuild not only their city but also their spiritual lives, laying a foundation for future generations to follow God's ways.Ezra 10:38
And Bani, and Binnui, Shimei,
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