Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Tel-harsha is mentioned in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity. It appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, specifically in Ezra 2:59 and Nehemiah 7:61. These passages list Tel-harsha among the places from which certain groups of people returned to Jerusalem and Judah but were unable to prove their Israelite ancestry. Scriptural Context: In the post-exilic period, the Jewish people were returning to their homeland after the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia, allowed them to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah document this significant period of restoration and rebuilding. The lists of returnees are crucial for establishing the continuity of the Israelite community and their covenantal identity. Ezra 2:59 : "The following came up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, and Immer, but could not prove that their families were descended from Israel." Nehemiah 7:61 : "The following came up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addon, and Immer, but could not prove that their families were descended from Israel." Historical and Geographical Considerations: Tel-harsha is one of several locations mentioned in the context of the return from exile. The exact geographical location of Tel-harsha is not definitively known today, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible outside of these genealogical records. The name "Tel-harsha" itself suggests a mound or ruin, as "Tel" is a term used in the ancient Near East to denote a mound or archaeological site formed by human occupation over centuries. Theological Significance: The mention of Tel-harsha in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and identity for the post-exilic community. The inability of some returnees to prove their Israelite descent highlights the challenges faced by the community in maintaining their distinct identity amidst the broader Persian Empire. This concern for genealogical purity reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and the preservation of the people of God. Cultural and Religious Implications: The returnees from Tel-harsha, along with others who could not verify their ancestry, were likely included in the community but faced certain restrictions, particularly concerning participation in the priesthood. This reflects the post-exilic emphasis on purity and adherence to the Law of Moses as the community sought to reestablish itself in the land and renew its covenantal relationship with God. Conclusion: While Tel-harsha itself remains an obscure location, its mention in the biblical text serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by the returning exiles. It highlights the importance of identity, heritage, and faithfulness to God's covenant in the life of the Israelite community during a pivotal moment in their history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TEL-HARSHAtel-har'-sha (tel-charsha'): In Ezra 2:59 Nehemiah 7:61 (the King James Version in latter, " 'Telharesha," tel-ha-re'sha, -har'e-sha), a Babylonian town or village from which Jews who could not show their lineage returned with Zerubbabel. The site is unknown. In 1 Esdras 5:36 it is called "Thelersas." Strong's Hebrew 8521. Tel Charsha -- "mound of a craftsman," a city in Babylon... Tel Charsha. 8522 . "mound of a craftsman," a city in Babylon. Transliteration: Tel Charsha Phonetic Spelling: (tale khar-shaw') Short Definition: Tel-harsha. ... /hebrew/8521.htm - 6k Thesaurus Telharsha... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TEL-HARSHA. tel-har'-sha (tel-charsha'): In Ezra 2:59 Nehemiah 7:61 (the King James Version in latter ... /t/telharsha.htm - 6k Tel-harsha (2 Occurrences) Tel-melah (2 Occurrences) Kerub (2 Occurrences) Immer (10 Occurrences) Tel-har'sha (2 Occurrences) Tel-harsa (1 Occurrence) Telmelah (2 Occurrences) Tel (5 Occurrences) Melah (2 Occurrences) Resources What are some exciting discoveries in biblical archaeology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Jacob's well? | GotQuestions.org What happened in the Six-Day War? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tel-harsha (2 Occurrences)Ezra 2:59 Nehemiah 7:61 Subtopics Related Terms |
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