Johanan יוֹחָנָן
A high priest during the Persian period
Who is Johanan in the Bible?
Johanan was a high priest who served during the Persian period, as documented in the genealogical records of Nehemiah 12. He was the son of Joiada and the father of Jaddua, placing him in the line of succession that maintained priestly continuity following the return from Babylonian exile (Neh. 12:11). The historical records note that Johanan was among the priests recorded as heads of their fathers' houses during the reigns of Darius, Xerxes, and Artaxerxes (Neh. 12:22-23). His inclusion in these official genealogies underscores his importance in preserving the legitimacy and religious authority of the Jewish priesthood during a formative period in post-exilic history.
Biography
Johanan is mentioned in Nehemiah 12 as a high priest who served during the Persian period. In the genealogies of the priests and Levites, Johanan is listed as the son of Joiada and the father of Jaddua (Neh.12.11). He is also mentioned in the context of the priests who were recorded as heads of their fathers' houses during the reigns of Darius the Persian, Xerxes, and Artaxerxes (Neh.12.22-23).
These genealogical records were important for establishing the legitimacy and continuity of the priesthood after the return from the Babylonian exile. Johanan's inclusion in these lists indicates that he played a significant role in leading the priesthood and maintaining religious order during a crucial period in Jewish history. However, no additional details are provided about his specific actions or achievements as high priest.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentNehemiah 3 verses
- Nehemiah 12:22
"In the days of Eliashib, Joiada, Johanan, and Jaddua, during the reign of Darius the Persian, the heads of the families of the Levites and priests were recorded."
Study Nehemiah → - Nehemiah 12:23
"As for the descendants of Levi, the family heads up to the days of Johanan son of Eliashib were recorded in the Book of the Chronicles."
Study Nehemiah → - Nehemiah 12:11
"Joiada was the father of Jonathan, and Jonathan was the father of Jaddua."
Study Nehemiah →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Transliteration | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | יוֹחָנָן | ywōḥānān | Jochanan , the name of nine Israelites |
| Spelled | Hebrew | יוֹנָתָן | — | — |