Razis
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Razis in the Bible?
Razis, a prominent elder and scribe in Jerusalem, was pursued by the Seleucid commander Nicanor during the Maccabean revolt. To avoid capture and forced apostasy, Razis committed suicide by falling on his sword, invoking divine justice and the hope of resurrection.
SIGNIFICANCE
The account of Razis provides insight into the intense religious persecution faced by Jews under Antiochus IV Epiphanes and illustrates the high value placed on fidelity to the Law and the belief in bodily resurrection among devout Jews of the period.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Razis reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Razis in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Razis 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
"Razis." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/razis/