Osnap'par, also known as Asnapper, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra. The reference to Osnap'par is found in Ezra 4:10, where he is described as a significant leader or official involved in the resettlement of peoples in the region of Samaria during the time of the Assyrian Empire. The Berean Standard Bible states: "and the rest of the nations that the great and noble Osnappar deported and settled in the cities of Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates."

Historical Context

Osnap'par is often identified with Ashurbanipal, the last of the great kings of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, who reigned from 668 to 627 BC. Ashurbanipal is known for his extensive military campaigns and for consolidating the Assyrian Empire's power. His reign was marked by the deportation and resettlement of various peoples, a common practice among Assyrian rulers to maintain control over conquered territories and to prevent rebellion.

Role in the Book of Ezra

In the context of the book of Ezra, Osnap'par's actions are part of the broader narrative of opposition faced by the Jewish exiles returning to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. The resettlement policies initiated by Osnap'par and other Assyrian rulers resulted in a mixed population in Samaria, which later became a source of tension and conflict with the returning Jewish exiles. The inhabitants of Samaria, who were settled there by Osnap'par, opposed the rebuilding efforts, as described in Ezra 4:1-5.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the mention of Osnap'par highlights the sovereignty of God over historical events and empires. Despite the political maneuvers and resettlement policies of powerful rulers like Osnap'par, the biblical narrative emphasizes God's ultimate plan for His people. The opposition faced by the Jewish exiles serves as a reminder of the challenges in fulfilling God's purposes, yet it also underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving His covenant people.

Cultural and Political Impact

The actions of Osnap'par and the Assyrian policy of deportation had long-lasting effects on the cultural and political landscape of the region. The intermingling of different peoples in Samaria contributed to the development of the distinct Samaritan identity, which played a significant role in the historical and religious tensions between Jews and Samaritans during the Second Temple period and into the New Testament era.

In summary, Osnap'par is a figure whose actions had significant implications for the history of Israel and the surrounding regions. His role in the resettlement of peoples in Samaria is a key element in understanding the complex interactions between the returning Jewish exiles and the inhabitants of the land during the post-exilic period.Osnap'par (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 4:10
And the rest of the nations which the great and noble Osnappar took over and put in Samaria and the rest of the country over the river:
(See RSV)

Osnap'par (1 Occurrence)
Osnap'par. Osnappar, Osnap'par. Ospray . Multi-Version Concordance
Osnap'par (1 Occurrence). Ezra 4:10 And the rest of the nations ...
/o/osnap'par.htm - 6k

Ospray (2 Occurrences)

/o/ospray.htm - 8k

Osnappar (1 Occurrence)

/o/osnappar.htm - 7k

Tirhakah (2 Occurrences)
... 670 BC) Esar-haddon fell ill and died on the way out, so that the operations were,
apparently, completed by his son, Assur-bani-pal (Osnap-par); On hearing of ...
/t/tirhakah.htm - 11k

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