Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Masseiah is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with several individuals. The name Masseiah, meaning "work of the Lord" or "Yahweh's work," reflects the theocentric nature of Hebrew names, often signifying a relationship or duty to God. The individuals named Masseiah appear in various contexts, primarily within the historical and priestly narratives of the Bible. Biblical References: 1. Masseiah, the Priest: · In the time of King Josiah, Masseiah is mentioned as a priest who played a role in the religious reforms initiated by the king. Josiah's reforms were significant in the history of Judah, as they sought to restore the worship of Yahweh and eliminate idolatry. Masseiah's involvement underscores the importance of priestly support in these reforms. · Reference: 2 Chronicles 34:8 · "In the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, to purify the land and the temple, he sent Shaphan son of Azaliah, Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the house of the LORD his God." 2. Masseiah, the Governor: · Another Masseiah is noted as a governor of Jerusalem during the reign of Josiah. His role in the administration of the city during a period of significant religious and political change highlights the integration of civic and religious duties in ancient Israel. · Reference: 2 Chronicles 34:8 · As mentioned above, Masseiah is listed alongside other officials tasked with temple repairs, indicating his administrative responsibilities. 3. Masseiah, the Father of Azariah: · In the genealogical records, Masseiah is identified as the father of Azariah, who was a leader in the time of Nehemiah. This connection places Masseiah within the post-exilic community, contributing to the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem. · Reference: Nehemiah 3:23 · "Beyond them, Benjamin and Hasshub made repairs in front of their house, and next to them, Azariah son of Maaseiah, the son of Ananiah, made repairs beside his house." 4. Masseiah, the Signatory of the Covenant: · During the time of Nehemiah, a Masseiah is listed among those who sealed the covenant, a significant act of commitment to follow the Law of God as the community sought to reestablish itself in the land after the Babylonian exile. · Reference: Nehemiah 10:25 · "Maaseiah, Bilgai, and Shemaiah. These were the priests." 5. Masseiah, the Musician: · In the context of temple worship, a Masseiah is mentioned as a musician, indicating the role of Levites in the liturgical life of Israel. Music was an integral part of worship, and those like Masseiah contributed to the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. · Reference: Nehemiah 12:41-42 · "And the priests Eliakim, Maaseiah, Miniamin, Micaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, and Hananiah with their trumpets, and also Maaseiah, Shemaiah, Eleazar, Uzzi, Jehohanan, Malchijah, Elam, and Ezer. The choirs sang under the direction of Jezrahiah." Significance: The various individuals named Masseiah illustrate the diverse roles played by leaders, priests, and laypeople in the religious and civic life of Israel. Their contributions, whether in governance, religious reform, or worship, reflect the multifaceted nature of service to God and community in the biblical narrative. The recurrence of the name across different periods and contexts highlights the enduring legacy of those who dedicated their lives to the "work of the Lord." Concordance Masseiah (4 Occurrences)2 Chronicles 26:11 Ezra 10:21 Nehemiah 11:5 Nehemiah 12:42 Thesaurus Masseiah (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Masseiah (4 Occurrences). ... (YLT). Ezra 10:21 and of the sons of Harim: Masseiah, and Elijah, and Shemaiah, and Jehiel, and Uzziah; (YLT) ... /m/masseiah.htm - 7k Massed (6 Occurrences) Masses (20 Occurrences) Inspector (4 Occurrences) Troops (92 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |