Jeu'el is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic community, specifically within the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name Jeu'el is derived from Hebrew, meaning "God sweeps away" or "God carries away," reflecting a common practice of the time to incorporate the name of God (El) into personal names, signifying a relationship or attribute associated with God.

Biblical References:

Jeu'el is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:6, which states: "From the descendants of Zerah: Jeu'el and their relatives—690 in all." . This passage is part of a larger genealogical record that details the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem and Judah after the Babylonian captivity. The mention of Jeu'el here highlights his role as a leader or notable figure among the descendants of Zerah, a clan within the tribe of Judah.

Historical and Theological Context:

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve several purposes. They provide a historical record of the Israelite tribes, affirming the continuity of God's covenant people despite the disruptions of exile. For the post-exilic community, these records were crucial in re-establishing tribal and familial identities, which were essential for the restoration of religious and social order in Jerusalem.

Jeu'el's inclusion in this list underscores the importance of each family and individual in the collective effort to rebuild the nation. The chronicler's emphasis on genealogies reflects a theological perspective that sees God's hand in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through specific lineages.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

In the broader cultural and religious context, names like Jeu'el carry significant weight. They often reflect the parents' faith and hope in God's providence and intervention. The name Jeu'el, with its connotation of God "sweeping away" or "carrying away," may suggest a recognition of God's power to remove obstacles or enemies, a fitting sentiment for a community emerging from exile.

The genealogical records, including the mention of Jeu'el, also serve to legitimize the claims of those who returned to the land. By tracing their ancestry, the returning exiles could assert their rightful place in the land promised to their forefathers, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people.

Conclusion:

While Jeu'el is a relatively obscure figure, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the broader themes of restoration, identity, and divine faithfulness that permeate the post-exilic narrative. His presence in the biblical record serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of God's covenant with Israel and the vital role of each individual in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.Jeu'el (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 9:6
And of the sons of Zerah: Jeuel, and their brethren, six hundred and ninety.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 29:13
And of the sons of Elizaphan, Shimri and Jeuel; and of the sons of Asaph, Zechariah and Mattaniah;
(See RSV)

Ezra 8:13
And of the sons of Adonikam, the last, whose names were Eliphelet, Jeuel, and Shemaiah; and with them sixty males.
(See RSV)

Jeu'el (3 Occurrences)
Jeu'el. Jeuel, Jeu'el. Jeush . Multi-Version Concordance Jeu'el (3
Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 9:6 And of the sons of Zerah: Jeuel ...
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Jeush (9 Occurrences)

/j/jeush.htm - 11k

Jeuel (3 Occurrences)

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