Topical Encyclopedia Tolbanes is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text known as 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and the Apocrypha of the King James Version. While not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament, 1 Esdras is recognized in certain Christian traditions, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church.Biblical Context Tolbanes appears in 1 Esdras 9:34, a book that parallels the canonical book of Ezra. The narrative of 1 Esdras focuses on the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent religious reforms led by Ezra. The text emphasizes the importance of adherence to the Law of Moses and the purification of the community from foreign influences. Role and Significance In 1 Esdras 9:34, Tolbanes is listed among the descendants of the priests who had married foreign women during the exile. The passage reads: "And of the sons of Harim: Eliezer, Ishijah, Malchijah, Shemaiah, Shimeon, Benjamin, Malluch, and Shemariah." Tolbanes is not directly mentioned in this verse, but he is part of the broader context of the narrative, which deals with the issue of intermarriage and the need for the community to separate from foreign influences to maintain religious purity. The inclusion of Tolbanes in this list underscores the broader theme of repentance and reform that is central to the book of 1 Esdras. The narrative highlights the importance of returning to the covenantal relationship with God by adhering to the laws given to Moses and avoiding practices that could lead to idolatry or syncretism. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of figures like Tolbanes in the context of intermarriage serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Jewish community in maintaining their distinct identity and faithfulness to God. The reforms led by Ezra, including the dissolution of marriages with foreign women, were seen as necessary steps to ensure the community's spiritual integrity and obedience to God's commandments. The account of Tolbanes and others in similar situations reflects the ongoing struggle between cultural assimilation and religious fidelity, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative. It serves as a call to the faithful to prioritize their relationship with God above all else and to make difficult choices when necessary to uphold the sanctity of their covenant with Him. Historical and Cultural Context The historical context of 1 Esdras and the mention of Tolbanes can be traced back to the period following the Babylonian exile, around the 5th century BCE. This was a time of rebuilding and re-establishing the Jewish community in Jerusalem. The returnees faced the challenge of integrating with those who had remained in the land and had intermarried with surrounding peoples. The cultural and religious reforms initiated by leaders like Ezra were crucial in re-establishing the Jewish identity and religious practices that had been compromised during the exile. The narrative of Tolbanes and others serves as a historical account of these efforts and the community's commitment to restoring their covenantal relationship with God. Conclusion While Tolbanes is a relatively obscure figure, his mention in 1 Esdras contributes to the larger narrative of repentance, reform, and the re-establishment of the Jewish community's faithfulness to God. His account, along with those of others in similar circumstances, highlights the enduring themes of covenant, purity, and the challenges of maintaining religious identity in the face of external influences. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TOLBANEStol'-ba-nez, tol-ba'-nez (Tolbanes): One of the porters who had taken foreign wives (1 Esdras 9:25) = "Telem" of Ezra 10:24; perhaps identical with the porter Talmon (Nehemiah 12:25). Thesaurus Tolbanes... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TOLBANES. tol'-ba-nez, tol-ba'-nez (Tolbanes): One of the porters who had taken foreign wives (1 ... /t/tolbanes.htm - 6k Telem (2 Occurrences) To'laites (1 Occurrence) Told (2734 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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