Topical Encyclopedia Sudias is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text known as 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint but is not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament. The name Sudias appears in 1 Esdras 5:31, where he is listed among those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua. This return is part of the larger narrative of the Jewish exiles who were allowed to return to their homeland following the decree of Cyrus, the king of Persia.Biblical Context 1 Esdras is a Greek version of the biblical books of Ezra and Nehemiah, with some variations and additional material. The book recounts the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, the rebuilding of the Temple, and the reestablishment of religious practices in Jerusalem. Sudias is mentioned in a genealogical list that parallels the lists found in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah. However, the name Sudias does not appear in the Hebrew text of these books, suggesting a possible transliteration or textual variation in the Greek manuscript. Historical and Theological Significance The mention of Sudias, though brief, is part of the broader narrative of the restoration of Israel after the Babylonian exile. This period is significant in Jewish history as it marks the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the reconstitution of the Jewish community in their ancestral land. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as an act of divine faithfulness and mercy, as God restores His people and renews His covenant with them. The inclusion of Sudias in the list of returnees highlights the collective effort of the Jewish community to rebuild their society and religious life. Each name in these genealogical records represents a family or clan that contributed to the restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple, underscoring the communal nature of this redemptive event. Textual Considerations The presence of Sudias in 1 Esdras but not in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah raises questions about textual transmission and the variations between the Hebrew and Greek texts. Scholars often study these differences to gain insights into the historical and cultural contexts of the Jewish diaspora and the development of biblical texts. While 1 Esdras is not considered canonical in most Christian traditions, it provides valuable historical and religious perspectives that complement the canonical accounts. The figure of Sudias, though obscure, is part of this rich tapestry of biblical history, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of the biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SUDIASsu'-di-as (Soudias): In 1 Esdras 5:23, a Levitical family that returned with Zerubbabel, called in Ezra 2:40 "Hodaviah" and in Nehemiah 7:43 "Hodevah" (which see). Thesaurus Sudias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SUDIAS. su'-di-as (Soudias): In 1 Esdras 5:23, a Levitical family that returned with Zerubbabel, called ... /s/sudias.htm - 6k Joda (1 Occurrence) Bannas Sue (2 Occurrences) Suddenly (87 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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