Kallai
Kallai in the Bible — son of Sallai_2 (NEH 12:20). Kallai belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “light; resting by fire; my voice”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Kallai is a male descendant of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as the son of Sallai. As a member of the Levitical priestly line, he is counted among the priests descended from Aaron, serving in a religious capacity during the post-exilic period. His mention in Nehemiah 12:20 places him within the context of the restored temple worship in Jerusalem.
Names & Titles
The name Kallai means "swift," reflecting a proper name of Hebrew origin as recorded in Nehemiah 12:20. There is no indication that this name was given by God, but it carries a meaning that may imply agility or readiness.
Family
Scripture explicitly records that Kallai is the son of Sallai, as noted in Nehemiah 12:20. Beyond this, no additional family relationships are documented in the biblical text.
Significance
Kallai's significance lies in his role as a priest descended from Aaron, contributing to the reestablishment of temple worship after the Babylonian exile. His inclusion in the genealogical record in Nehemiah underscores the continuity of the Levitical priesthood and the faithfulness of God's covenant people in maintaining their sacred duties. By serving as a priest, Kallai represents the restored worship community centered on the Lord in Jerusalem.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- קַלָּי
- Transliteration
- qalay
- Meaning
- swift
- Greek
- Καλλαι
- Reference
- NEH 12:20
- Strong's
- H7040
Family & Relationships (1)
son
Notes
As "priests" (NEH 12:12), descendants of Aaron
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kallai in the Bible?
Kallai is a male descendant of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as the son of Sallai. As a member of the Levitical priestly line, he is counted among the priests descended from Aaron, serving in a religious capacity during the post-exilic period. His mention in Nehemiah 12:20 places him within the context of the restored temple worship in Jerusalem.
What does the name Kallai mean?
The name Kallai means “light; resting by fire; my voice” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.