Who Was Ater in the Bible?
Ater is a name mentioned in the Old Testament, representing three different individuals or groups within the post-exilic community of Israel. The Hebrew name “Ater” (עֵטֶר) means “left-handed” or “maimed.” This name appears in the biblical texts of Ezra and Nehemiah, which document the return of the Israelites from the Babylonian exile and their efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the covenant community.
Ater: A Man Living at the Time of Exile and Return
Ater is first mentioned in Ezra 2:16 and Nehemiah 7:21. These verses list Ater as the father of Hezekiah, who is not to be confused with King Hezekiah of Judah. This Ater is noted among those who returned to Jerusalem from Babylon under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua. This return was a significant event in the history of Israel, as it marked the beginning of the restoration of the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile.
The lists in Ezra and Nehemiah serve as historical records, documenting the families and individuals who participated in this critical moment. Ater’s mention underscores the importance of individual contributions to the collective effort of rebuilding Jerusalem and reestablishing the worship practices central to Jewish identity.
Ater: Ancestor of a Post-Exile Family
In Ezra 2:42 and Nehemiah 7:45, Ater is identified as the ancestral head of a family of gatekeepers. These gatekeepers played a crucial role in the functioning of the temple, overseeing the entrance and maintaining security. This role was not only practical but also spiritual, as the gatekeepers were responsible for safeguarding the sanctity of the temple space.
The mention of Ater’s descendants in these passages highlights the continuity of service and worship among the people of Israel. Even after the challenges of exile, these families returned to their duties, emphasizing the importance of maintaining religious traditions and communal responsibilities.
Ater: Signatory of Nehemiah’s Covenant
Ater is also listed among the signatories of Nehemiah’s covenant in Nehemiah 10:17. This covenant was a formal agreement among the leaders, priests, Levites, and laypeople to adhere to the Law of Moses. The signing of this covenant was a significant act of rededication to God and His commandments, following a period of neglect and foreign influence.
The inclusion of Ater in this list signifies his commitment to the spiritual renewal of the community. By signing the covenant, Ater and the others demonstrated their dedication to living according to God’s laws, highlighting a collective return to the faith and practices that defined Israel as God’s chosen people.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The accounts of Ater and his descendants offer several valuable lessons for modern Christians. First, they emphasize the importance of faithfulness and dedication to God’s work. Ater’s family maintained their roles as gatekeepers, a seemingly modest position, but one that was vital to the functioning of the temple and the community’s spiritual life. This teaches modern believers that every role in the church or community, no matter how small it may seem, is important and valued in God’s eyes.
Additionally, Ater’s involvement in the covenant renewal underscores the importance of commitment to God’s word and commands. In a time of societal change and challenge, Ater’s participation in the covenant shows a resolve to uphold the teachings of Scripture and live according to God’s will. This serves as a reminder for Christians today to remain steadfast in their faith and to seek continual renewal in their spiritual lives.
Connection to a Loving God
The story of Ater reflects God’s faithfulness and loving care for His people, even during times of exile and hardship. The return from Babylonian captivity and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem were acts of divine grace, fulfilling God’s promises to restore His people. The detailed records of individuals like Ater illustrate God’s personal care for each member of the community, acknowledging their contributions and roles in His plan.
For modern believers, this narrative reinforces the understanding that God is deeply involved in the lives of His people. It assures Christians that God notices and values their efforts, no matter how seemingly insignificant, and that He is faithful to His promises.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Ater’s story, set in the context of the post-exilic restoration, points towards the greater restoration brought by Jesus Christ. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and the recommitment to the Law under Nehemiah prefigure the ultimate renewal of God’s covenant through Christ. Jesus, often seen as the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises, provides the perfect restoration of the relationship between God and humanity.
Just as Ater and his contemporaries recommitted to God’s laws, Christians are called to follow Christ, who perfectly embodied and fulfilled the law. The covenant renewal in Nehemiah’s time parallels the new covenant established by Jesus, which offers forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
Conclusion
Ater, though mentioned only briefly in the Bible, plays a significant role in the story of Israel’s return from exile and the restoration of Jerusalem. His family’s roles as gatekeepers, his inclusion in the list of returnees, and his participation in the covenant renewal highlight the importance of faithfulness, commitment, and service in the life of God’s people. For modern Christians, Ater’s story serves as a reminder of the value of every individual’s contribution to the community and the importance of maintaining a steadfast commitment to God’s word. It also connects believers to the broader narrative of God’s redemptive work, culminating in Jesus Christ, who offers a new and everlasting covenant. Through these lessons, Ater’s legacy continues to inspire and instruct believers today.