Topical Encyclopedia Zarakes is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal text of 1 Esdras, which is included in some versions of the Septuagint and is recognized in certain Christian traditions, though it is not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament. The name Zarakes appears in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a significant event in Jewish history that is also detailed in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah.Biblical Context In 1 Esdras 5:8, Zarakes is listed among the leaders who returned with Zerubbabel and Jeshua to Jerusalem following the decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple. The Berean Standard Bible does not include 1 Esdras, as it is not part of the Protestant canon, but the text parallels the accounts found in Ezra and Nehemiah, which describe the same historical period and events. Historical and Theological Significance The return from exile is a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the end of the Babylonian Captivity and the beginning of the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. Leaders like Zarakes played a crucial role in organizing and leading the people during this challenging time. Theologically, the return from exile is seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people and is a testament to His faithfulness and sovereignty. Comparison with Canonical Texts While Zarakes is not mentioned in the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the lists of returnees in these books serve a similar purpose, highlighting the continuity of the Jewish community and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The absence of Zarakes in the canonical texts does not diminish the importance of the event itself, which is central to understanding the post-exilic period and the rebuilding of the Jewish identity and religious life. Role in Jewish Tradition In Jewish tradition, the return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple are celebrated during the festival of Hanukkah, which commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple. Although Zarakes is not a central figure in these celebrations, the collective memory of the returnees and their leaders is honored as part of the broader narrative of Jewish perseverance and divine providence. Conclusion Zarakes, as mentioned in 1 Esdras, represents one of the many leaders who contributed to the restoration of Jerusalem and the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile. His inclusion in the apocryphal text underscores the collaborative effort required to rebuild the temple and reestablish the Jewish faith and culture in their ancestral homeland. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZARAKESzar'-a-kez (Codex Alexandrinus and Fritzsche, Zarakes; Codex Vaticanus and Swete, Zarios; Vulgate (Jerome's Latin Bible, 390-405 A.D.) Zaracelem; the King James Version Zaraces): Occurs in the difficult passage, 1 Esdras 1:38, as the equivalent of Jehoahaz (2 Kings 23:34) and Joahaz (2 Chronicles 36:4), the brother of Eliakim (Jehoiakim or JOAKIM (which see)). According to 1 Esdras 1:38, Joakim apparently apprehended his brother, Zarakes, and brought him up out of Egypt, whither he must have been previously taken by Necoh, whereas 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles only state that Necoh took Joahaz (Zarakes) to Egypt. Thesaurus Zarakes... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZARAKES. zar'-a-kez (Codex Alexandrinus and Fritzsche, Zarakes; Codex Vaticanus and Swete, Zarios ... /z/zarakes.htm - 7k Zaraces Zardeus Zaraias Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |