Ater is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with several individuals and families who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name Ater means "left-handed" or "bound" in Hebrew. Ater is mentioned in the context of the post-exilic community, highlighting the restoration and rebuilding efforts of the Israelites after their return to Jerusalem.

1. Ater of Hezekiah: Ater is listed among the descendants of Hezekiah who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. In Ezra 2:16 and Nehemiah 7:21, the "sons of Ater" are recorded as part of the group that came back from Babylon. This indicates their participation in the re-establishment of the Jewish community and the rebuilding of the Temple.

2. Ater as a Gatekeeper: Another mention of Ater is found in Nehemiah 10:19, where Ater is listed among the gatekeepers who sealed the covenant. This role was significant in maintaining the security and sanctity of the Temple, underscoring the importance of Ater's family in the religious life of the community.

Hezekiah

Hezekiah was the 13th king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh. His reign is detailed in 2 Kings 18-20, 2 Chronicles 29-32, and Isaiah 36-39. Hezekiah's name means "Yahweh strengthens," reflecting his reliance on God during his rule.

1. Religious Reforms: Hezekiah is celebrated for his commitment to purifying the worship practices in Judah. He removed high places, smashed sacred stones, and cut down Asherah poles (2 Kings 18:4). He also reopened the Temple, which had been neglected, and reinstated the Passover celebration (2 Chronicles 30:1-27).

2. Assyrian Threat: During Hezekiah's reign, the Assyrian king Sennacherib invaded Judah. Hezekiah sought the Lord's help, and God delivered Jerusalem by sending an angel to destroy the Assyrian army (2 Kings 19:35-36). This miraculous event demonstrated God's protection over His people.

3. Illness and Recovery: Hezekiah fell gravely ill, and the prophet Isaiah told him to set his house in order, for he would die. Hezekiah prayed earnestly, and God granted him an additional 15 years of life (2 Kings 20:1-6). This extension of life was a testament to Hezekiah's faith and God's mercy.

Azzur

Azzur is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, associated with individuals who played roles in the prophetic and political landscape of ancient Israel. The name Azzur means "helper" or "one who assists" in Hebrew.

1. Azzur the Father of Jaazaniah: In Ezekiel 11:1, Azzur is identified as the father of Jaazaniah, one of the leaders of the people who were giving wicked counsel in Jerusalem. This association places Azzur within the context of the prophetic warnings against the leaders of Israel who were leading the people astray.

2. Azzur the False Prophet: Another Azzur is mentioned in Jeremiah 28:1 as the father of Hananiah, a false prophet who opposed Jeremiah. Hananiah falsely prophesied that the Babylonian yoke would be broken within two years, contradicting Jeremiah's message from God. This Azzur's connection to false prophecy highlights the challenges faced by true prophets in delivering God's message amidst opposition.

These entries reflect the historical and spiritual significance of the individuals named Ater, Hezekiah, and Azzur, as recorded in the biblical narrative.