Ater(2)
Ater in the Bible — his sons (descendants) returned to Judah after captivity (EZR 2:42). Ater belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “left hand; shut”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Ater was a male member of the tribe of Levi known primarily for his descendants who returned to Judah after the Babylonian captivity. His significance is noted in the post-exilic period as part of the restoration community. Beyond this, the biblical record provides limited additional information about him.
Names & Titles
The name Ater appears once in Scripture and may mean 'crippled one,' 'left-handed one,' or be a variant of 'Etir.' This proper name was not given by God but reflects a personal or familial designation recorded in Ezra 2:42.
Family
Scripture records Ater as a descendant of Levi, indicating his Levitical lineage. No further family details are provided beyond the mention of his sons who returned from exile.
Significance
Ater's importance lies in his role as an ancestor of Levites who participated in the return to Judah following the captivity. This connection highlights the restoration of the Levitical priestly line and the reestablishment of worship and community life in Jerusalem. His mention in Ezra underscores the faithfulness of God's people in preserving their heritage through challenging times.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אָטֵר
- Transliteration
- ater
- Meaning
- [poss.] crippled one, left-handed one, or Etir
- Greek
- Ατηρ
- Reference
- EZR 2:42
- Strong's
- H333
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ater in the Bible?
Ater was a male member of the tribe of Levi known primarily for his descendants who returned to Judah after the Babylonian captivity. His significance is noted in the post-exilic period as part of the restoration community. Beyond this, the biblical record provides limited additional information about him.
What does the name Ater mean?
The name Ater means “left hand; shut” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.