Topical Encyclopedia Pochereth-hazzebaim is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the post-exilic records of the Israelites. This name appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and later, Nehemiah. The name is found in the lists of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who played a crucial role in the functioning of the Second Temple.Biblical References: 1. Ezra 2:57 : "the descendants of Shephatiah, the descendants of Hattil, the descendants of Pochereth-hazzebaim, and the descendants of Ami." This verse is part of a larger passage that enumerates the families and individuals who returned from the Babylonian exile. The mention of Pochereth-hazzebaim here indicates a family or clan that was part of the Nethinim, who were assigned to assist the Levites in the temple service. 2. Nehemiah 7:59 : "the descendants of Shephatiah, the descendants of Hattil, the descendants of Pochereth-hazzebaim, and the descendants of Amon." This passage mirrors the list found in Ezra, reaffirming the presence and role of the Pochereth-hazzebaim family among the returnees. The repetition of these lists in both Ezra and Nehemiah underscores the importance of documenting the continuity of temple service and the restoration of proper worship practices in Jerusalem. Historical and Cultural Context: The Nethinim, to which the Pochereth-hazzebaim belonged, were a group of temple servants whose origins are somewhat obscure. The term "Nethinim" means "given ones," suggesting that they were dedicated to the service of the temple. Their duties likely included menial tasks necessary for the maintenance and operation of the temple, allowing the Levites to focus on their priestly functions. The inclusion of the Pochereth-hazzebaim in the lists of returnees highlights the comprehensive effort to restore the religious and cultural life of the Jewish community in Jerusalem after the exile. The careful documentation of these families reflects the importance of re-establishing the temple's operations according to the traditions and laws given to Moses. Etymology and Interpretation: The name Pochereth-hazzebaim is of uncertain etymology, but it is often interpreted as "the snaring of the gazelles" or "the trap of the gazelles." This interpretation is based on the Hebrew roots involved in the name. The significance of this name, like many ancient names, may have been more apparent to the original audience and could have held particular meaning or symbolism related to the family's history or role. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Pochereth-hazzebaim and other Nethinim in the post-exilic records serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people and their religious practices. Despite the challenges of exile and the daunting task of rebuilding, the continuity of temple service was maintained, symbolizing the enduring covenant between God and Israel. The detailed genealogies and lists in Ezra and Nehemiah emphasize the importance of community, heritage, and the fulfillment of divine promises in the life of the Jewish people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia POCHERETH-HAZZEBAIMpok'-e-reth, po'-ke-reth, po-ke'-reth, -ha-ze-ba'-im (pokhereth hatstsebhayim (Ezra 2:57), or pokhereth ha-tsebhayim (Nehemiah 7:59), "binder (feminine) of the gazelles"): Name of the head of a post-exilic family. The first word is a feminine Kal participle; compare qoheleth ("preacher"), the Hebrew title of the Book of Eccl. BDB suggests that the feminine is that of office. King James Version has "Pochereth of Zebaim" in Ezra, but Ryle (Cambridge Bible, 235) notes that "of" is not in the 1611 edition Thesaurus Pocherethhazzebaim/p/pocherethhazzebaim.htm - 7k Pochereth (2 Occurrences) Pochereth-hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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