Topical Encyclopedia Chellus is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period, specifically in the Book of Ezra. The name Chellus appears in the genealogical records of those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem and Judah. This period was marked by the efforts to restore the religious and social order of the Jewish people following their return from captivity.Biblical Reference: Chellus is mentioned in Ezra 10:35, where he is listed among the descendants of the priests who had taken foreign wives. The passage reads: "Moreover, of the sons of the priests: the sons of Habaiah, the sons of Hakkoz, and the sons of Barzillai, who had married the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name." . Chellus is included in the list of those who were found to have intermarried with foreign women, which was against the Mosaic Law as it was believed to lead the Israelites away from their covenant with God. Historical and Religious Context: The return from exile was a significant event in Jewish history, as it marked the beginning of the Second Temple period. Under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish community sought to re-establish their identity and religious practices. A key concern during this time was the issue of intermarriage with foreign nations, which was seen as a threat to the purity of the Israelite faith and community. Ezra, a scribe and priest, was particularly zealous in addressing this issue. He led a reform movement to ensure that the Israelites adhered strictly to the Law of Moses. This included the dissolution of marriages with foreign women, as these unions were believed to lead to idolatry and a departure from the worship of Yahweh. Theological Significance: The mention of Chellus in the Book of Ezra highlights the challenges faced by the Jewish community in maintaining their distinct identity and religious purity. The narrative underscores the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the need for repentance and reform in the face of sin. The actions taken by Ezra and the community reflect a commitment to uphold the covenant relationship with God, emphasizing the centrality of holiness and separation from practices that could lead to spiritual compromise. Chellus and the Broader Biblical Narrative: The account of Chellus and others who had taken foreign wives serves as a reminder of the recurring theme in the Old Testament of Israel's struggle with faithfulness to God amidst external influences. It illustrates the tension between cultural assimilation and religious fidelity, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative. The account of Chellus is a part of the larger narrative of Israel's history, where the call to holiness and covenant faithfulness remains a constant challenge and aspiration for God's people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHELLUSkel'-us (Chellous), a place named (Judith 1:9) among those West of the Jordan to which Nebuchadnezzar sent his summons. It is mentioned along with "Kades," and as it lay North of the "children of Ishmael" it may with some probability be taken as lying Southwest of Jerusalem. It has been conjectured that it may be Chalutzah (Reland, Palestine, 717), a place under the form Elusa well known to the ancient geographers. Thesaurus Chellus... Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHELLUS. kel'-us (Chellous), a place named (Judith 1:9) among those West of the Jordan to which Nebuchadnezzar sent his summons. ... /c/chellus.htm - 6k Chelluh (1 Occurrence) Chelod Chellians Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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