Topical Encyclopedia Sabbateus is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is noted for his role among the Levites during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian exile and re-establishing their religious and communal life in Jerusalem.Biblical References: 1. Ezra 10:15 : "Only Jonathan son of Asahel and Jahzeiah son of Tikvah, supported by Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levite, opposed this." In this passage, Sabbateus, referred to as Shabbethai, is mentioned as a Levite who was involved in the discussions concerning the issue of intermarriage among the Israelites. The context here is the reform led by Ezra to address the problem of Israelites marrying foreign women, which was seen as a violation of the covenantal laws. 2. Nehemiah 8:7 : "The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law as they stood in their places." In this verse, Sabbateus is listed among the Levites who helped instruct the people in the Law of God during the public reading of the Torah. This event was a significant moment in the spiritual renewal of the Jewish community, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adhering to God's commandments. 3. Nehemiah 11:16 : "Shabbethai and Jozabad, two of the heads of the Levites, who had charge of the outside work of the house of God." Here, Sabbateus is identified as one of the leaders among the Levites, responsible for overseeing the external work related to the temple. This role underscores the administrative and practical responsibilities that the Levites held in maintaining the temple's operations and ensuring that the worship practices were conducted properly. Role and Significance: Sabbateus, as a Levite, played a crucial role in the religious life of the post-exilic Jewish community. The Levites were tasked with various duties related to the temple service, teaching the Law, and ensuring the community's adherence to the covenant. Sabbateus's involvement in these activities highlights the importance of the Levites in guiding the spiritual and communal restoration of Israel after the exile. His participation in the public reading and instruction of the Law, as well as his leadership in temple-related work, reflects the broader efforts of Ezra and Nehemiah to re-establish a society centered on the worship of Yahweh and obedience to His commandments. Sabbateus's actions contributed to the reformation and renewal of the Jewish faith during a pivotal time in their history. Historical Context: The period following the Babylonian exile was marked by significant challenges and opportunities for the Jewish people. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple and city walls were accompanied by a renewed focus on religious purity and adherence to the Mosaic Law. Leaders like Ezra and Nehemiah were instrumental in these efforts, and figures like Sabbateus played supportive roles in implementing these reforms. The mention of Sabbateus in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various leaders and community members in restoring the spiritual and social fabric of Israel. His contributions, though briefly noted, were part of the larger movement to re-establish a covenantal community dedicated to the worship and service of God. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SABBATEUSsab-a-te'-us (Sabbataios; the King James Version Sabbatheus): One of the three (or rather two, for "Levis" = Levite) "assessors" in the investigation held concerning "foreign wives" (1 Esdras 9:14) = "Shabbethai the Levite" in Ezra 10:15. He is probably the "Sabateus," one of the Levites who expounded the Law (1 Esdras 9:48), and so = the "Shabbethai" in Nehemiah 8:7. Thesaurus Sabbateus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SABBATEUS. sab-a-te'-us (Sabbataios; the King James Version Sabbatheus): One of the three (or rather ... /s/sabbateus.htm - 6k Levis Sabban Shabbethai (3 Occurrences) Sabbatheus Sabbath (126 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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