Reelias
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Reelias in the Bible?
Reelias is identified as a leader among those who returned from the Babylonian exile under Zerubbabel, with textual variants in Ezra 2:2 and Nehemiah 7:7 equating this name with Reelaiah and Raamiah, specifically corresponding to the position held by Bigvai.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing these textual variations in the lists of returnees allows readers to reconcile differences between manuscript traditions and gain a clearer understanding of the specific individuals and families who reestablished Jewish community life in Jerusalem after the exile.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Reelias reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Reelias in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Reelias clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Ezra 2:2Nehemiah 7:7
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
"Reelias." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/reelias/