Tabaoth
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Topical Encyclopedia
Tabaoth is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity. The name appears in the list of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the house of God.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Tabaoth is found in the book of Ezra:

· Ezra 2:43 : "The temple servants: the descendants of Ziha, Hasupha, and Tabaoth."

This passage is part of a larger genealogical record that enumerates the various groups and families who returned to Jerusalem and Judah under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua. The Nethinim, including the descendants of Tabaoth, played a crucial role in the restoration of worship and the rebuilding of the temple.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Nethinim were a distinct group within the Israelite community, likely originating from non-Israelite peoples who were integrated into the service of the temple. Their name, "Nethinim," means "given" or "dedicated," indicating their consecration to the work of the temple. The inclusion of Tabaoth among the Nethinim underscores the diverse composition of those who served in the temple and highlights the importance of their role in maintaining the religious life of the post-exilic community.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Tabaoth and the Nethinim in the biblical record serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people and restoring them to their land. It also reflects the inclusive nature of God's covenant community, where individuals from various backgrounds were brought together to serve Him. The dedication and service of the Nethinim, including the descendants of Tabaoth, exemplify the principle that all members of the community, regardless of their origin, have a valuable role in the worship and service of God.

Related References:

The parallel account of the returnees, including the Nethinim, is also found in the book of Nehemiah:

· Nehemiah 7:46 : "The temple servants: the descendants of Ziha, Hasupha, and Tabaoth."

This repetition in Nehemiah underscores the continuity and consistency of the historical record concerning the return from exile and the reestablishment of the temple services.

Conclusion:

While Tabaoth is a relatively obscure name in the biblical narrative, its inclusion in the genealogical lists of Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the comprehensive nature of the restoration efforts and the diverse composition of the community dedicated to the service of God. The descendants of Tabaoth, as part of the Nethinim, contributed to the spiritual renewal and the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem, playing a vital role in the life of the post-exilic Jewish community.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
TABAOTH, TABBAOTH

ta-ba'-oth, tab'-a-oth (tabba`oth; Tabaoth, Taboth): The name of a family of temple-servants (1 Esdras 5:29) = "Tabbaoth" (Hebrew: Tabba`oth) of Ezra 2:43 Nehemiah 7:46; perhaps called after the name of a place.

Compare TABBATH.

Strong's Hebrew
2884. Tabbaoth -- an Israelite
... NASB Word Usage Tabbaoth (2). Tabaoth. Plural of tabba'ath; rings; Tabbaoth, one
of the Nethinim -- Tabaoth. see HEBREW tabba'ath. 2883, 2884. Tabbaoth. 2885 ...
/hebrew/2884.htm - 6k
Thesaurus
Tabaoth
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TABAOTH, TABBAOTH. ta-ba'-oth,
tab'-a-oth (tabba`oth; Tabaoth, Taboth): The name of a family of ...
/t/tabaoth.htm - 6k

Tabbaoth (2 Occurrences)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary Impressions; rings, "the children of," returned from the
Captivity (Ezra 2:43). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. TABAOTH, TABBAOTH. ...
/t/tabbaoth.htm - 7k

Tabaliah (1 Occurrence)

/t/tabaliah.htm - 6k

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