Topical Encyclopedia Someis is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic period, specifically within the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name "Someis" is found in the apocryphal book of 1 Esdras, which is considered canonical in some Christian traditions but is not included in the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament.Biblical References: 1. 1 Esdras 8:36 : "And of the sons of Annas, Elionas, and Someis, and Shelemias, and Nathan, and of the sons of Ezora, Shaphat." In this passage, Someis is listed among the sons of Annas, a group that returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Ezra. The context suggests that Someis was part of the community committed to the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish religious practices after the Babylonian captivity. Historical and Cultural Context: The return from exile was a significant period in Jewish history, marked by the rebuilding of the Temple and the reformation of religious and social structures. The genealogies recorded in books like 1 Esdras and Ezra-Nehemiah served to establish the continuity of the Jewish people and their covenantal relationship with God. Names like Someis, though not prominent, represent the collective effort of the Jewish community to restore their identity and faith. Theological Significance: While Someis himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of every individual in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The post-exilic period was a time of renewal and recommitment to the Law of Moses, and each family and individual played a role in this spiritual revival. The mention of Someis highlights the collective responsibility of the people of Israel to uphold their covenant with God. Linguistic Notes: The name "Someis" is of uncertain etymology, and its meaning is not explicitly defined in biblical texts. It is possible that the name has roots in Hebrew or Aramaic, languages commonly spoken by the Jewish people during the post-exilic period. The variations in spelling and pronunciation across different manuscripts and translations reflect the challenges of preserving ancient names through oral and written traditions. Related Figures: · Annas: The father or ancestor of Someis, mentioned in the same genealogical list. Annas is a name that appears in various contexts in the Bible, including the New Testament, where a high priest named Annas is noted during the time of Jesus. · Ezra: A key leader during the return from exile, Ezra was a scribe and priest who played a crucial role in the religious and social reforms of the Jewish community. His leadership is documented in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, as well as in 1 Esdras. Conclusion: The brief mention of Someis in the biblical record serves as a reminder of the many individuals who contributed to the restoration of Israel after the exile. Though not much is known about him, his inclusion in the genealogies reflects the broader narrative of faithfulness and renewal that characterizes this pivotal period in biblical history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SOMEISso'-me-is (Someeis; the King James Version Samis): One of the Israelites, who put away their foreign wives (1 Esdras 9:34) = "Shimei" in Ezra 10:38. Thesaurus Someis...SOMEIS. so'-me-is (Someeis; the King James Version Samis): One of the Israelites, who put away their foreign wives (1 Esdras 9:34) = "Shimei" in Ezra 10:38. ... /s/someis.htm - 6k Somehow (8 Occurrences) Samis Shimei (43 Occurrences) Someone (153 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |