Maaseiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reign of King Uzziah of Judah. His name, Maaseiah, means "work of the Lord" or "Yahweh is a refuge," reflecting a common practice in ancient Israel of embedding the name of God within personal names to signify devotion or divine purpose.

Biblical References:

Maaseiah is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 26:11, which provides insight into his role and responsibilities during the reign of King Uzziah. The verse states: "Uzziah had an army ready for battle, stationed by divisions according to the numbers mustered by Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the officer, under the direction of Hananiah, one of the king’s commanders."

Role and Responsibilities:

In this passage, Maaseiah is identified as an "officer" in the military organization of King Uzziah. His position suggests that he held a significant role in the administration and management of the king's army. The term "officer" in this context likely indicates a high-ranking official responsible for overseeing military operations, logistics, or personnel. Maaseiah worked alongside Jeiel, the scribe, and under the command of Hananiah, highlighting a structured and hierarchical military system in Judah during Uzziah's reign.

Historical and Theological Context:

King Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was one of the more successful and long-reigning monarchs of Judah, ruling for approximately 52 years. His reign is noted for military strength, economic prosperity, and significant building projects. The mention of Maaseiah as an officer during this period underscores the importance of organized military leadership in maintaining the kingdom's stability and security.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Maaseiah in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the diverse roles individuals played in the unfolding account of God's people. His position as an officer reflects the broader theme of divine order and governance, where each person, regardless of their specific duties, contributes to the fulfillment of God's purposes for Israel.

Significance:

While Maaseiah the officer is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his mention provides valuable insight into the administrative and military structures of ancient Judah. His role exemplifies the collaboration between various officials and the king, ensuring the effective functioning of the kingdom. This brief reference to Maaseiah also highlights the importance of faithful service in positions of authority, a principle that resonates throughout the biblical text.

In summary, Maaseiah the officer is a testament to the intricate and divinely orchestrated systems within the kingdom of Judah, where each individual's work contributed to the greater good of the nation under God's sovereign plan.