Topical Encyclopedia Phassaron is a name mentioned in the genealogical records found in the apocryphal books of 1 Esdras, which is part of the Septuagint but not included in the canonical Hebrew Bible. The name appears in the context of the return of the exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. While Phassaron is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, its inclusion in 1 Esdras provides insight into the broader historical and familial context of the post-exilic community.Genealogical Context In 1 Esdras 8:30, Phassaron is listed among the heads of families who returned with Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. The passage reads: "Of the sons of Phassaron, Zechariah, and with him were counted one hundred fifty males." This indicates that Phassaron was a patriarchal figure whose descendants were part of the significant movement back to the Promised Land, a fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people after the Babylonian captivity. Historical and Theological Significance The return from exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the beginning of the restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple. The inclusion of Phassaron in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in the re-establishment of the Jewish community. Each family head, including Phassaron, played a crucial role in the rebuilding efforts and the reconstitution of religious and social life according to the Law of Moses. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a demonstration of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Despite the judgment of exile due to Israel's unfaithfulness, God remained committed to His people, orchestrating their return and the eventual rebuilding of the Temple. The mention of Phassaron and other family heads in these records serves as a testament to the continuity of God's plan and the preservation of His chosen people. Cultural and Religious Context The genealogies in 1 Esdras, including the mention of Phassaron, reflect the cultural emphasis on heritage and the transmission of faith through generations. The post-exilic community was deeply concerned with maintaining purity of worship and adherence to the Law, as evidenced by the reforms initiated by Ezra and Nehemiah. The returnees, including the descendants of Phassaron, were tasked with re-establishing the religious practices that defined their identity as God's covenant people. In summary, while Phassaron is a relatively obscure figure, his mention in the genealogical records of 1 Esdras highlights the broader narrative of restoration and covenant faithfulness that characterizes the post-exilic period. His descendants' participation in the return to Jerusalem signifies the collective effort to rebuild and renew the community in accordance with God's promises. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PHASSARONfas'-a-ron: King James Version = Revised Version PHASSURUS (which see). Thesaurus Phassaron... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PHASSARON. fas'-a-ron: King James Version = Revised Version PHASSURUS (which see). ... /p/phassaron.htm - 6k Phassurus Phasiron Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |