Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe family of Immer is a significant priestly lineage mentioned in the Old Testament. This family is noted for its role in the religious and ceremonial life of ancient Israel, particularly during the time of the First and Second Temples. The Immer family is one of the twenty-four priestly divisions established by King David to organize the service of the priests in the Temple (1 Chronicles 24:7-19). Biblical References 1. 1 Chronicles 24:14 · The division of Immer is listed as the sixteenth of the twenty-four priestly courses. This organizational structure was intended to ensure that the Temple services were conducted with order and regularity. The verse states: "the fifteenth to Bilgah, the sixteenth to Immer." 2. Ezra 2:37; Nehemiah 7:40 · Members of the family of Immer are recorded among those who returned from the Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel. This return was crucial for the restoration of the Temple and the reestablishment of proper worship in Jerusalem. Ezra 2:37 notes, "The descendants of Immer, 1,052," indicating the significant number of priests from this family who participated in the return. 3. Nehemiah 11:13 · The Immer family is also mentioned in the context of those who resettled in Jerusalem to ensure the city's spiritual and communal life was maintained. The verse states, "and his associates, heads of families—242 men." 4. Jeremiah 20:1-2 · Pashhur, a notable member of the family of Immer, served as a priest and chief officer in the house of the LORD. He is known for his opposition to the prophet Jeremiah, whom he had beaten and put in stocks. The passage reads: "Now Pashhur son of Immer, the priest, was chief officer in the house of the LORD, and he heard Jeremiah prophesying these things. So Pashhur had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin at the house of the LORD." Historical and Religious Significance The family of Immer played a vital role in the religious leadership of Israel. As a priestly family, they were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the sanctity of the Temple, and teaching the Law to the people. Their involvement in the return from exile highlights their commitment to the restoration of Israel's religious identity and practices. The mention of Pashhur, a member of the Immer family, in the book of Jeremiah, illustrates the complex dynamics between the prophetic and priestly offices in ancient Israel. While Pashhur's actions against Jeremiah reflect a tension between established religious authority and prophetic critique, they also underscore the active role the Immer family played in the religious and political life of the nation. Conclusion The family of Immer, as a priestly lineage, contributed significantly to the spiritual heritage of Israel. Their presence in key biblical narratives underscores their importance in maintaining the religious traditions and practices that were central to Israel's identity as a covenant people. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 9:12And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; Nave's Topical Index Ezra 2:37 Ezra 10:20 Nehemiah 7:40 Nehemiah 11:13 Library Luther's Catechisms. AD 1529. The Greater Prophets. John Calvin. His Life and Character. The Form of Concord. AD 1577. Resources Who was Zadok in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |