Zerahiah(2)
Zerahiah in the Bible — father of Eliehoenai who went up with Ezra (EZR 8:4). Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “the Lord rising; brightness of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Zerahiah is a male biblical figure known primarily as the father of Eliehoenai, who accompanied Ezra during the return to Jerusalem. His tribal affiliation is not specified in Scripture. Beyond his role as a father, there are no additional notes or distinguishing details recorded about him.
Names & Titles
The name Zerahiah means 'YHWH shines brightly' or 'YHWH has risen like the sun,' reflecting a theophoric element that honors the Lord. This proper name emphasizes God's radiant presence and action, though it was not given directly by God according to the record.
Family
Scripture identifies Zerahiah as a descendant of Pahath-moab and explicitly records him as the father of Eliehoenai. These relationships situate him within a genealogical line connected to the community that returned with Ezra. No other family connections are documented beyond these.
Significance
Zerahiah's significance lies in his connection to the post-exilic community led by Ezra, as his son Eliehoenai was among those who returned to Jerusalem. This link highlights the continuity of faithful families during the restoration period and underscores the importance of genealogical records in preserving the identity and heritage of God's people. Though not a prominent figure himself, Zerahiah's mention roots the narrative in real family lines instrumental to Israel's spiritual renewal.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- זְרַחְיָה
- Transliteration
- zərachəyah
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h shines brightly [red or scarlet]; y-h-v-h has risen [like the sun]
- Greek
- Ζαραια
- Reference
- EZR 8:4
- Strong's
- H2228
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zerahiah in the Bible?
Zerahiah is a male biblical figure known primarily as the father of Eliehoenai, who accompanied Ezra during the return to Jerusalem. His tribal affiliation is not specified in Scripture. Beyond his role as a father, there are no additional notes or distinguishing details recorded about him.
What does the name Zerahiah mean?
The name Zerahiah means “the Lord rising; brightness of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.