Zechariah זְכַרְיָהוּ
Levite who assisted Ezra in reading the Law
Who is Zechariah in the Bible?
Zechariah was a Levite who lived during the period following the Babylonian exile and served as an assistant to Ezra in the spiritual reformation of the Jewish community. He is best known for standing beside Ezra on the platform when Ezra read the Book of the Law aloud to the assembled people of Jerusalem, as recorded in Nehemiah 8:4. This public reading of Scripture was a pivotal moment in restoring the religious life of the returning exiles. Zechariah's prominent position alongside Ezra indicates he held a respected place among the Levites and played an active role in the community's religious instruction and renewal.
Biography
Zechariah was a Levite who lived during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, after the return from the Babylonian exile. When Ezra read the Book of the Law to the assembled people, Zechariah was one of the Levites who stood beside him on the platform. This public reading of the Law was a significant event in the spiritual reformation of the Jewish community. Zechariah's presence on the platform with Ezra indicates his status as a respected Levite and his involvement in the religious life of the community.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentNehemiah 1 verse
- Nehemiah 8:4
"Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform built for this occasion. At his right side stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, and at his left were Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hash-baddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | זְכַרְיָהוּ |