Topical Encyclopedia Hariph is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is listed among the descendants of the Israelites who returned from the Babylonian exile. In Nehemiah 7:24, Hariph is noted as the head of a family that returned with Zerubbabel, contributing to the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the restoration of the Jewish community. The name Hariph means "autumn" or "harvest," which may symbolize a time of gathering and restoration for the people of Israel. The parallel account in Ezra 2:18 refers to the same family as the "sons of Jorah," suggesting a possible alternate name or a scribal variation. Hariph's inclusion in these genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and continuity in the post-exilic restoration efforts.Anathoth Anathoth is both a person and a place in the biblical narrative. As a person, Anathoth is one of the sons of Becher, a descendant of Benjamin, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:8. The name Anathoth is more prominently recognized as a Levitical city within the territory of Benjamin, as noted in Joshua 21:18. Anathoth holds significant historical and prophetic importance. It is the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah, as indicated in Jeremiah 1:1, where it is described as a priestly city. The town's association with Jeremiah highlights its role in the prophetic tradition of Israel. Anathoth is also mentioned in the context of judgment and restoration, as seen in Jeremiah 32:7-9, where Jeremiah purchases a field in Anathoth as a sign of hope and future restoration for Israel. The name Anathoth means "answers to prayer" or "afflictions," reflecting its dual role as a place of both challenge and divine promise. Nebai Nebai is a lesser-known figure in the Bible, mentioned in the context of the return from Babylonian exile. In Nehemiah 7:33, Nebai is listed among the heads of families who returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem. The name Nebai is also found in the parallel account of Ezra 2:29, where the family is referred to as the "sons of Nebo." This suggests a possible variation in the name or a connection to the Babylonian deity Nebo, which was common in names during the exile. The inclusion of Nebai in these genealogical records highlights the diverse backgrounds of those who participated in the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community. The name Nebai may mean "fruitful" or "prophet," reflecting the hope and renewal associated with the return from exile. |