Book of Nehemiah - Chapter 7 - Verse 48

These three names mentioned in this verse, Lebana, Hagaba, and Shalmai, are the descendants of the Levites, a tribe of Israel. The Levites were chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple, assisting the priests in their duties. Each Levite family had specific roles and responsibilities within the religious community.

Lebana, Hagaba, and Shalmai were likely heads of Levite families or leaders within the tribe. Their mention in the Bible serves as a record of the genealogy of the Levites, highlighting the importance of lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite society. Knowing and tracing one's lineage was significant for maintaining religious and cultural traditions within the community.

By including these names in the verse, the Bible emphasizes the continuity and connection between generations of Israelites, showing the importance of maintaining a sense of identity and belonging within the larger tribe of Levi. This attention to detail in documenting the descendants of the Levites underscores the meticulous record-keeping and historical significance attributed to genealogy in ancient Hebrew culture.

The names mentioned in this verse, 'The children of Lebana, the children of Hagaba, the children of Shalmai,' may seem obscure or unfamiliar to contemporary readers. However, in a theological interpretation, these names serve a crucial function in demonstrating the genealogy and lineage of the Israelite tribes. They provide a historical context for understanding the descendants of these individuals and their place within the larger narrative of God's chosen people. Through further word studies and research, scholars have uncovered deeper meanings and connections between these names and their significance within the biblical text. By delving into the original Hebrew meanings of these names and exploring their cultural and historical contexts, we can gain a richer understanding of the intricate tapestry of genealogies and lineages woven throughout the Bible.