Topical Encyclopedia Rezin is a figure mentioned in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically in the context of the return from the Babylonian captivity. His name appears in the genealogical records of those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah following the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia, which allowed the exiled Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.Biblical References: Rezin is mentioned in the book of Ezra, which provides a detailed account of the returnees and their efforts to restore the temple and reestablish the community in Jerusalem. In Ezra 2:48, Rezin is listed among the descendants of the temple servants who returned with Zerubbabel. The Berean Standard Bible states: "The descendants of Rezin, the descendants of Nekoda, the descendants of Gazzam." The temple servants, or Nethinim, were a group of individuals assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. Their role was crucial in the functioning of the temple, as they performed various tasks that supported the worship and sacrificial system. The inclusion of Rezin among the temple servants highlights his family's dedication to the religious life and the restoration of proper worship in Jerusalem. Historical and Theological Context: The return from Babylonian captivity was a significant event in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the beginning of a new chapter for the Jewish people. The decree of Cyrus, as recorded in Ezra 1:1-4, was seen as a divine intervention that allowed the exiles to return and rebuild the temple, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC. Rezin's inclusion in the list of returnees underscores the diverse composition of the returning community. The genealogical records in Ezra and Nehemiah serve not only as historical documentation but also as a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. The returnees, including Rezin, were part of a remnant that God had preserved, and their return was a step towards the restoration of Israel's religious and national identity. Significance: The mention of Rezin, though brief, is significant in understanding the broader narrative of the post-exilic community. It reflects the continuity of worship and service in the temple, which was central to Jewish life and identity. The temple servants, including Rezin, played a vital role in maintaining the religious practices that defined the Jewish faith. Furthermore, the return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple were seen as acts of divine grace and faithfulness. The community of returnees, with individuals like Rezin, was a living testimony to God's covenantal promises and His ongoing relationship with His people. The restoration of the temple and the reestablishment of worship were pivotal in renewing the spiritual life of the nation and reaffirming their identity as God's chosen people. In summary, Rezin's mention in the genealogical records of Ezra highlights the importance of the temple servants in the post-exilic community and serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in restoring His people and their worship. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 2:48The children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam, Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 7:50 Library The Antiquities of the Jews Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources Who was King Pekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Ahaz in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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