Ja-a'ziel, also spelled as Jahaziel, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. His name means "God sees" or "God looks," reflecting the divine insight and revelation associated with his role in the biblical narrative. Ja-a'ziel is primarily recognized for his prophetic role during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah.

Biblical Context

Ja-a'ziel appears in the context of a significant event recorded in 2 Chronicles 20. During this time, King Jehoshaphat faced a formidable alliance of enemy forces from Moab, Ammon, and Mount Seir, who came to wage war against Judah. In response to this threat, Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast throughout Judah and sought the LORD's guidance through prayer.

Prophetic Role

Ja-a'ziel is introduced as a Levite from the line of Asaph, a family known for their musical and prophetic contributions to the worship in the temple. The Spirit of the LORD came upon Ja-a'ziel in the assembly, and he delivered a crucial prophetic message to King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. The account is found in 2 Chronicles 20:14-17 :

"Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, as he stood in the midst of the assembly. And he said, 'Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow you are to march down against them. You will see them coming up the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the valley facing the wilderness of Jeruel. You need not fight this battle. Take up your positions, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, for the LORD is with you.'"

Significance

Ja-a'ziel's prophecy was pivotal in encouraging the people of Judah and reinforcing their faith in God's deliverance. His message emphasized that the battle belonged to the LORD, and the people were to stand firm and witness God's salvation. This divine assurance led to a remarkable victory for Judah, as the LORD set ambushes against the enemy forces, causing them to turn on each other and ultimately be defeated without Judah having to engage in combat.

Legacy

Ja-a'ziel's role as a prophet highlights the importance of divine guidance and the power of faith in God's promises. His message to Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah serves as a timeless reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in the face of overwhelming odds. Ja-a'ziel's obedience to the Spirit and his bold proclamation of God's word exemplify the prophetic ministry's vital role in the spiritual life of Israel.

In the broader biblical narrative, Ja-a'ziel's account underscores the theme of God's deliverance and the assurance that He is present with His people, guiding and protecting them through life's challenges.Ja-a'ziel (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 15:18
and with them their brothers of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Eliphelehu, and Mikneiah, and Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, the doorkeepers.
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Ja-a'ziel (1 Occurrence)
Ja-a'ziel. Jaaziel, Ja-a'ziel. Jabal . Multi-Version Concordance
Ja-a'ziel (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 15:18 and with them their ...
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Jaaziel (1 Occurrence)

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Jabal (1 Occurrence)

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