Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Sarabias is a name found in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. The name is associated with the Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties and service in the temple. Sarabias is mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple. Biblical References: 1. Ezra 8:18-19 : Sarabias is identified as one of the Levites who joined Ezra in the return to Jerusalem. "And by the good hand of our God upon us, they brought us a man of insight from the sons of Mahli, the son of Levi, the son of Israel, namely Sherebiah, with his sons and brothers, 18 men." 2. Nehemiah 8:7 : Sarabias is listed among the Levites who helped the people understand the Law as it was read aloud by Ezra. "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." 3. Nehemiah 9:4-5 : Sarabias is mentioned as one of the Levites who led the people in worship and confession during a solemn assembly. "On the stairs of the Levites stood Jeshua, Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani, who cried out with loud voices to the LORD their God. And the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah—said: 'Stand up and bless the LORD your God from everlasting to everlasting.'" 4. Nehemiah 10:12 : Sarabias is listed among those who sealed the covenant, committing to follow the Law of God given through Moses. "Serebiah, Shebaniah, Hodiah." 5. Nehemiah 12:8, 24 : Sarabias is noted as one of the leaders of the Levites who were responsible for the songs of thanksgiving. "The Levites: Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and Mattaniah, who, with his associates, was in charge of the songs of thanksgiving... And the heads of the Levites were Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua son of Kadmiel, along with their associates, who stood opposite them to give praise and thanksgiving, one section responding to the other, as prescribed by David the man of God." Role and Significance: Sarabias, also known as Sherebiah, played a significant role in the religious life of the post-exilic Jewish community. As a Levite, he was instrumental in teaching the Law, leading worship, and ensuring the proper observance of religious practices. His involvement in the reading and explanation of the Law highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to God's commandments. Sarabias' participation in sealing the covenant underscores his commitment to the spiritual renewal and reform of the community. Theological Implications: The mention of Sarabias in these contexts emphasizes the continuity of the Levitical priesthood and its critical role in maintaining the spiritual integrity of Israel. His actions reflect the broader theme of restoration and covenant renewal that characterizes the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Sarabias' dedication to the Law and worship serves as a model for faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, illustrating the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding the community towards righteousness. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SARABIASsar-a-bi'-as (Sarabias): One of the Levites who taught and expounded the Law for Ezra (1 Esdras 9:48) = "Sherebiah" in Nehemiah 8:7, probably identical with the "Asebebias" in 1 Esdras 8:47 (Ezra 8:18). Thesaurus Sarabias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SARABIAS. sar-a-bi'-as (Sarabias): One of the Levites who taught and expounded the Law for Ezra ... /s/sarabias.htm - 6k Sherebiah (8 Occurrences) Sara (2 Occurrences) Sarah (38 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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