Shobai
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Shobai in the Bible?
Sho'bai was the head of a family that returned from the Babylonian captivity, mentioned in Ezra 2:42 and Nehemiah 7:45.
SIGNIFICANCE
The inclusion of Sho'bai in the census lists of Ezra and Nehemiah provides concrete evidence of the specific lineage and social structure of the post-exilic community, illustrating the organized nature of the returnees' re-establishment in Judea.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Shobai reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Shobai in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Shobai 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
"Shobai." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/shobai/