Eliashib אֶלְיָשִׁיב
High priest during Nehemiah's time, involved in rebuilding Jerusalem's wall
Who is Eliashib in the Bible?
Eliashib was the high priest of Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah's leadership in the mid-fifth century BCE. He played a prominent role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall after the Babylonian exile, as recorded in Nehemiah 3:1, 20, and 21. Along with his fellow priests, Eliashib rebuilt and consecrated the Sheep Gate, one of the main entrances to the city. His involvement in this massive reconstruction project underscores the vital role that religious leadership played in restoring not only Jerusalem's physical defenses but also its spiritual life and identity as God's covenant people.
Biography
Eliashib, the high priest, is mentioned in Neh.3.1, 20, 21 as one of the prominent figures involved in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. He, along with his fellow priests, rebuilt the Sheep Gate and consecrated it (Neh.3.1). Eliashib's involvement in the rebuilding project highlights the importance of religious leadership in the restoration of Jerusalem. The text also mentions that Eliashib's grandson, Meremoth, was responsible for repairing two sections of the wall (Neh.3.20, 21). Eliashib's participation in the rebuilding effort demonstrates his commitment to the physical and spiritual restoration of the city and the temple.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentNehemiah 3 verses
- Nehemiah 3:1
"At the Sheep Gate, Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests began rebuilding. They dedicated it and installed its doors. After building as far as the Tower of the Hundred and the Tower of Hananel, they dedicated the wall."
Study Nehemiah → - Nehemiah 3:20
"Next to him, Baruch son of Zabbai diligently repaired another section, from the angle to the doorway of the house of Eliashib the high priest."
Study Nehemiah → - Nehemiah 3:21
"Next to him, Meremoth son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, repaired another section, from the doorway of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house."
Study Nehemiah →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אֶלְיָשִׁיב |