Who was Osnappar in the Bible?

Man living at the time of Exile and Return

Osnappar, mentioned in Ezra 4:10, is a man living at the time of the Exile and Return. He is only mentioned in this specific verse in the Bible. Osnappar is also known as Ashurbanipal in the NIV translation, and Asnapper in the King James Version.

Ashurbanipal was a well-known king of Assyria who reigned from 669-631 BC. He was a powerful ruler who expanded the Assyrian Empire and was known for his library at Nineveh which contained a vast collection of cuneiform tablets.

In the context of Ezra 4:10, Osnappar/Ashurbanipal is likely mentioned in relation to the opposition faced by the Jewish people in rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. During this time, the enemies of Judah wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes of Persia, mentioning Osnappar/Ashurbanipal as someone who deported people to various locations. This reference highlights the historical and political challenges faced by the Jewish people during the time of the Exile and their return to Jerusalem.

From a biblical point of view, the mention of Osnappar/Ashurbanipal in Ezra 4:10 serves as a reminder of the historical context in which the events of the Bible took place. It emphasizes the sovereignty of God over the nations and how He worked through various rulers and empires to fulfill His purposes, even in the midst of opposition and challenges faced by His people.

Overall, Osnappar/Ashurbanipal’s brief mention in Ezra 4:10 provides valuable historical and contextual insight into the time of the Exile and Return, showcasing God’s faithfulness and ultimate control over the course of history.