Overview:
Shalmai is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is identified as one of the heads of families who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name Shalmai is associated with the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who played a crucial role in the religious life of the restored community in Jerusalem.

Biblical References:
Shalmai is mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple and the city walls. The specific references to Shalmai are found in the lists of those who returned with Zerubbabel.

1. Ezra 2:46 : "The descendants of Shalmai, the descendants of Hanan, the descendants of Giddel."
2. Nehemiah 7:48 : "The descendants of Shalmai, the descendants of Hanan, the descendants of Giddel."

Role and Significance:
Shalmai is listed among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. The Nethinim were originally non-Israelites who were integrated into the religious community to perform menial tasks necessary for the functioning of the temple. Over time, they became an essential part of the temple service, contributing to the worship and rituals that were central to Jewish religious life.

The inclusion of Shalmai and his descendants in the lists of returnees highlights the importance of the Nethinim in the post-exilic community. Their willingness to return and serve in the temple underscores their dedication to the worship of Yahweh and the restoration of Israel's religious practices.

Historical Context:
The return from Babylonian exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history. Under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish people sought to reestablish their identity and religious practices in the land of their ancestors. The rebuilding of the temple and the reestablishment of proper worship were central to this effort.

The Nethinim, including the descendants of Shalmai, played a vital role in this process. Their service ensured that the temple could function according to the prescriptions of the Law, facilitating the community's spiritual renewal and adherence to the covenant with God.

Theological Implications:
The mention of Shalmai and the Nethinim in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the inclusivity of God's plan for His people. Despite their origins as non-Israelites, the Nethinim were grafted into the community of Israel and given a significant role in the worship of Yahweh. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's grace and the inclusion of all who are willing to serve Him faithfully.

Furthermore, the dedication of the Nethinim to temple service exemplifies the importance of humble and faithful service in the life of the believer. Their commitment to the tasks assigned to them, regardless of their status, highlights the value of every role within the community of faith.Shalmai

my garment

Shalmai

(my thanks). The children of Shalmai were among the Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:46; Nehemiah 7:48) In Nehemiah SALMAI. (B.C. 536.)

SHALMAI

shal'-mi, shal'-ma-i: the King James Version form in Ezra 2:46 for "Shamlai"; Nehemiah 7:48 "Salmai" (which see).

8073. Shamlay -- Shalmai
... Shamlay. 8074 . Shalmai. Transliteration: Shamlay Phonetic Spelling:
(sham-lah'-ee) Short Definition: Shalmai. Word Origin scribal error for Salmay, ...
/hebrew/8073.htm - 5k

8014. Salmay -- head of a postexilic family
... 8013, 8014. Salmay. 8015 . head of a postexilic family. Transliteration: Salmay
Phonetic Spelling: (sal-mah'-ee) Short Definition: Shalmai. ... Shalmai. ...
/hebrew/8014.htm - 6k

Shalmai (2 Occurrences)
...SHALMAI. shal'-mi, shal'-ma-i: the King James Version form in Ezra 2:46 for "Shamlai";
Nehemiah 7:48 "Salmai" (which see). ...Shalmai (2 Occurrences). ...
/s/shalmai.htm - 7k

Salmai (2 Occurrences)
... sal'-mi, sal'-ma-i (salmay; the King James Version, Shalmai (the King James Version
in Nehemiah 7:48 is "Shalmai" = Ezra 2:46); the Revised Version (British ...
/s/salmai.htm - 7k

Shalman (1 Occurrence)

/s/shalman.htm - 9k

Shallun (1 Occurrence)

/s/shallun.htm - 7k

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