Ateta
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ateta in the Bible?
Ate'ta was a Levite family head who returned from Babylonian captivity with Zerubbabel and served as a gatekeeper; he is identified as Hitita in Ezra 2:42 and Nehemiah 7:45.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Ate'ta as Hitita clarifies textual variations in the genealogical records of Ezra and Nehemiah, demonstrating the meticulous preservation of Levitical lineage and temple service roles during the rebuilding of the community.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Ateta reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ateta in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ateta clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Ezra 2:42Nehemiah 7:45
Related Topics
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
"Ateta." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ateta/