Topical Encyclopedia Hashabiah is a notable figure in the Old Testament, recognized for his role as a chief Levite. The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties, and Hashabiah's leadership and service are highlighted in several passages of Scripture.1. Genealogical Background and Role: Hashabiah is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Levites, indicating his significant lineage and role within the tribe. In 1 Chronicles 6:45, he is listed among the descendants of Merari, one of the three sons of Levi, emphasizing his hereditary position within the Levitical order: "The son of Hashabiah, the son of Amaziah, the son of Hilkiah." 2. Service in the Temple: Hashabiah's service is further detailed in the context of the temple duties. In 1 Chronicles 9:14, he is identified as one of the Levites who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, underscoring his commitment to the restoration of worship: "Of the Levites: Shemaiah son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari." 3. Leadership and Oversight: Hashabiah held a position of leadership among the Levites, as seen in 1 Chronicles 26:30, where he is described as having oversight of the work of the Lord in the territories west of the Jordan: "From the Hebronites: Hashabiah and his relatives—1,700 capable men—had oversight of Israel west of the Jordan in all the work of the LORD and in the service of the king." 4. Role in Reforms: During the reforms of King Hezekiah, Hashabiah played a crucial role in organizing the Levites for the purification and restoration of the temple. His involvement is noted in 2 Chronicles 31:13, where he is appointed as an overseer: "Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismachiah, Mahath, and Benaiah were supervisors under the authority of Conaniah and his brother Shimei by the appointment of King Hezekiah and Azariah the official in charge of the house of God." 5. Participation in the Return from Exile: Hashabiah is also mentioned in the context of the return from Babylonian exile, where he is listed among those who accompanied Ezra back to Jerusalem. Ezra 8:19 records his participation: "and Hashabiah, along with Jeshaiah from the descendants of Merari, with his brothers and their sons—20 men." Hashabiah's life and service exemplify the dedication and leadership expected of the Levites, as he played a vital role in the religious and communal life of Israel. His contributions to the temple service and his leadership in various capacities highlight the importance of the Levitical ministry in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 35:9Conaniah also, and Shemaiah and Nethaneel, his brothers, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad, chief of the Levites, gave to the Levites for passover offerings five thousand small cattle, and five hundred oxen. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Jeduthun in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |