Atar
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Atar in the Bible?
Atar is identified as a patriarchal figure or clan leader among the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel, as recorded in 1 Esdras 5:28.
SIGNIFICANCE
The inclusion of Atar in the genealogical lists of returning exiles provides concrete evidence of the social structure and family lineages that re-established the Jewish community in the post-exilic period, offering readers a tangible connection to the historical reality behind the biblical narrative of restoration.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Atar reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Atar in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Atar clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Atar." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/atar/