Pethahiah
Priest and Levite in Israel's service
Also known as: Petachja, Pethahiah
Pethahiah is a name that appears several times in the Old Testament. The most well-known Pethahiah was a Levite who served in the temple after returning from the Babylonian exile, and who was involved in the people's repentance and renewal of the covenant with God. Another Pethahiah served as the king's advisor on matters concerning the Jewish people.
Key events
Leader of the sixteenth priestly division
Pethahiah was appointed leader of the sixteenth of the twenty-four priestly divisions that David organized for temple service.
Levite who confessed the people's sins
Pethahiah was among the Levites who stood on the platform and led the people in prayer and confession of sin during the great assembly led by Ezra and Nehemiah.
Divorce from foreign wives
One Pethahiah was among those who had taken foreign wives and promised to divorce them during Ezra's reforms to preserve the purity of the people.
King's representative for the people
Pedaiah, son of Meshezabel, from the descendants of Zerah of the tribe of Judah, served as the king's representative in all matters concerning the people and acted as an intermediary between the Persian court and the Jewish community.