Who was Pashur?

Pashur (Hebrew: פַּשְׁחוּר, Pashḥur, meaning “freedom” or possibly “splitter” or “one who spreads”) refers to more than one individual in the Old Testament, but in 1 Chronicles 9:12, he is listed as one of the priests who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. This Pashur is described as “the son of Malchijah,” and is noted among the sons of the priests who dwelt in Jerusalem, helping to re-establish the priestly order in the post-exilic community.

This listing appears in the genealogical and administrative records in 1 Chronicles 9, which parallels Nehemiah 11, where names of the resettlers are recorded. These records were important in restoring proper temple worship and order after the exile.

While other figures named Pashur appear elsewhere in Scripture—such as Pashur son of Immer in Jeremiah 20, a priest who persecuted the prophet Jeremiah—the Pashur in 1 Chronicles 9 is specifically connected with the priestly service and rebuilding of the temple order during the time of return from Babylon.

Biblical References

• 1 Chronicles 9:12 – “…and Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah; and Maasai son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer.”

• Nehemiah 11:12-13 – Lists the priests who lived in Jerusalem, including descendants of Pashur.

Cross-references:

• Ezra 2:38, Nehemiah 7:41 – Pashur is named as the ancestor of a priestly family that returned from exile.

• Jeremiah 20:1-6 – Another Pashur, likely different, is noted for persecuting Jeremiah.

• Nehemiah 10:3 – A Pashur is among those who sealed the covenant with God.

What Happened in the Bible?

The book of 1 Chronicles is concerned with preserving Israel’s genealogies and organizing the roles of Levites and priests. In chapter 9, after detailing the genealogies from Adam to the post-exilic period, the chronicler recounts the names of those who settled in Jerusalem when the captives returned from Babylon. Among the priests is Pashur son of Malchijah, showing his family’s role in the restored temple worship.

This listing signifies that Pashur’s family remained faithful to their priestly calling even after the judgment and exile of Judah. His inclusion indicates a lineage that was active in re-establishing temple worship and religious life in Jerusalem, a crucial step in re-centering the people of God around His covenant and presence.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Pashur’s role reminds believers today of the importance of faithfulness in times of restoration. Just as the post-exilic Jews needed priests to re-establish right worship and covenant order, the church today needs faithful leaders to shepherd God’s people, especially after spiritual decline or hardship.

Pashur’s name appearing in genealogical records shows the value God places on continuity, faithfulness, and covenant identity. Though seemingly minor, every individual and act of service in God’s redemptive plan matters. No name is lost in God’s memory when it comes to His people.

Christians today are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), and Pashur’s priestly role reminds us that we are called to live holy lives, mediating the presence and message of God to a watching world.

How Pashur’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The priesthood, including figures like Pashur, was a shadow of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ. While Pashur served in the temple to mediate worship and offerings, Jesus came as the perfect priest and offering (Hebrews 7–10). The restoration of the temple in Jerusalem pointed forward to the greater restoration Jesus would accomplish—not just of a building, but of human hearts.

Pashur’s inclusion among the returning priests foreshadows the gospel’s power to restore and re-establish what was lost, a theme fulfilled in Christ, who came to “rebuild” the temple in three days (John 2:19), referring to His body and resurrection. The return from exile is a type of the greater return to God brought about through the cross.

Broader Biblical Themes

Restoration After Exile

Pashur is a figure in the context of Israel‘s restoration. His presence in the priestly record is a sign that God was not finished with His people after judgment but had plans to rebuild and renew.

The Importance of Lineage and Faithfulness

In the Old Testament, genealogies were not just lists but declarations of God’s covenant continuity. Pashur’s mention highlights how God preserves His people through generations.

The Priesthood and Worship

The reestablishment of temple worship with faithful priests like Pashur anticipates the role of the church today in offering spiritual sacrifices to God. It also points toward the once-for-all priestly work of Christ.

God’s Memory and Covenant Faithfulness

Even lesser-known individuals like Pashur are recorded in Scripture, reminding us that God sees and values every act of service, no matter how obscure.

Reflection Questions

1. How does the faithfulness of people like Pashur inspire you to remain steadfast in your own calling?

2. In what ways can you help re-establish or support godly worship and teaching in your own church or community?

3. How does the restoration of Israel after exile point you to the restoring work of Jesus in your life?

4. What does it mean to be part of a “royal priesthood” today, and how are you living out that identity?

5. How can genealogies and lists of names in the Bible strengthen your trust in the continuity of God’s plan and His personal care?

Though Pashur may be a minor figure, his faithful presence among the restored priesthood reflects a major truth: God is always building His people, one life at a time, for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.