Henadad is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is recognized as a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service. The name "Henadad" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "favor of Hadad" or "grace of Hadad," with Hadad being a name associated with a Semitic storm god, though in the biblical context, it is simply a personal name.

Biblical References:

Henadad is primarily mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple. His name appears in the context of the reconstruction efforts and the reestablishment of religious practices.

1. Nehemiah 3:18 · "Next to him, their brothers carried out repairs under Bavai son of Henadad, ruler of the other half-district of Keilah."

In this passage, Henadad is noted as the father of Bavai, who was involved in the repair of the walls of Jerusalem. This indicates that Henadad's family was actively engaged in the communal effort to restore the city, highlighting their commitment to the physical and spiritual restoration of Israel.

2. Nehemiah 3:24 · "Next to him, Binnui son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the angle and the corner."

Here, another son of Henadad, Binnui, is mentioned as participating in the rebuilding efforts. This further emphasizes the involvement of Henadad's lineage in the significant task of rebuilding Jerusalem's defenses, a project that was both a practical necessity and a symbolic act of faith and renewal for the Jewish people.

3. Nehemiah 10:9 · "The Levites: Jeshua son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel,"

In this verse, Binnui, identified as one of the sons of Henadad, is listed among the Levites who sealed the covenant. This covenant was a solemn agreement to follow the Law of God, underscoring the spiritual leadership and dedication of Henadad's family to the religious life of the community.

Role and Significance:

Henadad's mention in these passages, though brief, is significant in illustrating the role of the Levites during the period of restoration. The Levites were responsible for various religious duties, including teaching the Law, leading worship, and maintaining the temple. Henadad's family, through their active participation in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and their commitment to the covenant, exemplifies the Levites' dedication to both the physical and spiritual renewal of the nation.

The involvement of Henadad's descendants in these critical tasks reflects the broader theme of faithfulness and obedience to God that characterizes the post-exilic community. Their efforts contributed to the reestablishment of Jerusalem as the center of Jewish worship and identity, a testament to their enduring legacy in the history of Israel.Ezra 3:9
Then stood Jeshua with his sons and his brothers, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, with their sons and their brothers the Levites.
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Nehemiah 3:18,24
After him repaired their brothers, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah.
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Nehemiah 10:9
And the Levites: both Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel;
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2582. Chenadad -- a Levite
... Definition: Henadad. Word Origin probably from chen and Hadad Definition
a Levite NASB Word Usage Henadad (4). Henadad. Probably from ...
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