מַעֲשַׂי (ma.a.say)
ma.a.say
Maasai
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name ma‘asay is a shortened form of the Hebrew theophoric name ma‘aseyah, meaning “the work of the Lord.” It appears in the Old Testament as a personal name for a Levite priest who lived during the period of the Exile and Return. The sources identify him primarily through his mention in 1 Chronicles 9:12, where he is listed among the descendants of Adiel.
This individual is also identified with Amashsai (or Amashai), a priest mentioned in Nehemiah 11:13 who served as an official during the restoration of Jerusalem. The textual variation between these names reflects common scribal practices of abbreviating longer divine names, yet both point to the same historical figure within the post-exilic Levitical community.
The significance of this name lies in its theological implication rather than a narrative event. By bearing a name that attributes action to God, the priest’s identity was rooted in the belief that his service and lineage were part of divine activity. This naming convention highlights how the returning exiles viewed their restoration not merely as political change, but as the ongoing work of Yahweh among His people.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Maasai carries a quiet but powerful meaning: "the work of the Lord." In a time when Israel had returned from exile to rebuild their lives and community, this name served as a constant reminder that their restoration was not just human effort. It belonged to God.
For you today, this word invites a shift in perspective. When you face tasks that feel overwhelming or mundane, remember that your service is part of a larger divine activity. You are not working alone; your efforts are woven into the ongoing work of God in the world. This truth brings comfort and purpose to every season of life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Maasai1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/מַעְשַׂ֨י1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 9:12
and Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah; and Maasai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer;
This verse lists Maasai among the Levitical priests, grounding his identity in lineage and service rather than personal fame.