Casiphia is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra. It is referenced in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Ezra. The name Casiphia appears in Ezra 8:17, where it is described as a place where Levites and temple servants were found to accompany the returning exiles.

Biblical Reference:
Ezra 8:15-17 provides the context for the mention of Casiphia: "Now I assembled them at the canal that flows toward Ahava, and we camped there for three days. I searched among the people and priests, but found no Levites there. So I summoned Eliezer, Ariel, Shemaiah, Elnathan, Jarib, Elnathan, Nathan, Zechariah, and Meshullam, who were leaders, and Joiarib and Elnathan, who were men of learning. And I sent them to Iddo, the leader at Casiphia, with a message for him and his brothers, the temple servants at Casiphia, to bring us ministers for the house of our God."

Historical and Geographical Context:
The exact location of Casiphia is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible outside of the book of Ezra. Some scholars suggest that it was a settlement or a district within the Babylonian Empire, possibly near the Ahava Canal, where Ezra gathered the exiles. The mention of Iddo as a leader at Casiphia indicates that it was a place with an organized community, likely with a significant Jewish population, including Levites and temple servants.

Religious Significance:
Casiphia holds religious significance due to its role in the preparation for the return to Jerusalem and the restoration of temple worship. The Levites and temple servants were essential for the proper functioning of the temple, and their presence was crucial for the religious life of the Jewish community. Ezra's successful appeal to the leaders at Casiphia underscores the cooperation and unity among the Jewish exiles in their commitment to reestablishing their religious practices in Jerusalem.

Theological Implications:
The mention of Casiphia in the narrative of Ezra highlights the providence and faithfulness of God in providing for the needs of His people. Despite the challenges of the exile, God ensured that the necessary personnel for temple service were available and willing to return to Jerusalem. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to orchestrate events and people to fulfill His divine purposes.

Cultural and Social Aspects:
The reference to Casiphia also sheds light on the social structure of the Jewish exilic community. The presence of leaders and learned men, as well as the organized group of temple servants, suggests a community that maintained its religious identity and traditions even while in exile. This resilience and dedication to their faith and heritage were instrumental in the successful reestablishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

In summary, Casiphia serves as a testament to the enduring faith and organization of the Jewish people during the Babylonian exile, as well as to the divine provision that facilitated their return and the restoration of their religious practices.Casiphi'a (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 8:17
And I gave them commandment unto Iddo the chief at the place Casiphia; and I told them what they should say unto Iddo and his brother, who were set over the place Casiphia, that they should bring unto us ministers for the house of our God.
(See RSV)

Casiphi'a (1 Occurrence)
Casiphi'a. Casiphia, Casiphi'a. Casluh . Multi-Version Concordance
Casiphi'a (1 Occurrence). Ezra 8:17 And I gave them commandment ...
/c/casiphi'a.htm - 6k

Casiphia (1 Occurrence)

/c/casiphia.htm - 7k

Casluh (1 Occurrence)

/c/casluh.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus