Habai'ah is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity. The name appears in the genealogical records of those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Habai'ah is found in the book of Ezra. In Ezra 2:61-62 , it is recorded: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name). These men searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean."

A parallel account is found in Nehemiah 7:63-64 , which reiterates the same situation regarding the priestly lineage: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name). These men searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean."

Historical and Theological Context:

The mention of Habai'ah occurs during a critical period in Jewish history when the exiles were returning to their homeland and re-establishing their religious and social structures. The genealogical records were of utmost importance, especially for the priestly class, as they determined one's eligibility to serve in the temple.

The descendants of Habai'ah, along with those of Hakkoz and Barzillai, faced a significant challenge. They were unable to produce the necessary genealogical records to prove their lineage, which was a requirement for serving as priests. As a result, they were considered "unclean" and were excluded from priestly duties. This exclusion underscores the importance of maintaining accurate family records and the emphasis on purity and legitimacy within the priesthood.

Name and Meaning:

The name Habai'ah (also rendered as Hobaiah) is of Hebrew origin. While the exact meaning of the name is not definitively known, it is often associated with the idea of "Yahweh hides" or "Yahweh conceals." This could reflect a theological understanding of God's protective or mysterious nature.

Significance:

The account of Habai'ah and his descendants serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and the challenges faced by the returning exiles in re-establishing their community. It highlights the meticulous care taken to preserve the sanctity and order of the priesthood, which was central to the religious life of Israel. The narrative also reflects the broader theme of restoration and the complexities involved in reclaiming one's identity and role within the covenant community after a period of displacement and exile.Habai'ah (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 2:61
And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Hakkoz, the children of Barzillai, who took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their name.
(See RSV)

Habai'ah (1 Occurrence)
Habai'ah. Habaiah, Habai'ah. Habakkuk . Multi-Version Concordance
Habai'ah (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:61 And of the children of the ...
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Habaiah (2 Occurrences)

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Habakkuk (3 Occurrences)

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