Subai
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Subai in the Bible?
The Subaei were a family of temple-servants who returned with Zerubbabel, and are mentioned in 1 Esdras 5:30. They are also referred to as 'Shamlai' in Ezra 2:46 and 'Salmai' in Nehemiah 7:48.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying the Subaei clarifies the specific lineage of non-priestly temple workers who maintained the liturgical functions of the Second Temple, illustrating the structured social hierarchy established during the post-exilic restoration.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Subai reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Subai in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Subai clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Ezra 2:46Nehemiah 7:48
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
"Subai." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/subai/