Verses 1-35 Returning Exiles
This chapter begins with a list of the captives returning from Exile when king Nebuchadnezzar took the children of Israel to Babylon in bondage. These were the ones considered to be "true Israel," or the "remnant" and were descendants of ancient Israel. Those mentioned here are considered authentic because their line falls after Jacob. You may recognize names like Nehemiah and Mordecai in verse two. You read about them in the book of Nehemiah and Esther respectively. It is important to make this connection as it relates to this book and in the rebuilding of the holy city. Don't skip over the names and counts of the exiles. It is incredible to think of how many people were taken captive and how many made it through to the other side.
Verses 36-40 The Priests & Levites
These priests came through the line of Aaron and were of the tribe of Levi. They and their sons were ordained to do the temple work and sacrifice. The Levites were not in the line from Aaron but were of the tribe of Levi, and assisted the priests.
Verses 41-42 Singers and Gatekeepers
These singers and porters were chosen by king David from the Levite families and had been assigned special tasks. You can read about that in 1 Chronicles chapters 25 and 26. They had their appointed jobs to do and so this is important to see the record of them listed among the exiles.
Verses 43-55 Nethenims
These were the temple servants. The tasks given to them were considered menial and yet they served the Lord with utmost devotion. It reminds us that no matter how big or small our gifts and abilities are, God wants to use us if we are willing. Will we covet other gifts and positions, or will we do our menial tasks with utmost devotion to God?
Verses 56-63 Descendants of Solomon's Servants & Priests Removed
In verse 63, the Urim and Thummim were consulted to help determine God's will in a matter. You see this in Exodus 28:30 and it literally means Lights and the Perfections. This was to be upon Aaron's heart when he went before the LORD. We see in verse 62 those who claimed to be priests but were found not to be so were put from the priesthood. This careful consideration of rightful priesthood positions shows the significance of the calling. We must all be in prayer as we seek out what God would have us do. He gave each of us our own gifts and abilities to further His Kingdom on this earth.
Verses 64-67 The Full Number and Possessions
The whole congregation together was 42,360, not including the male and female slaves which were 7,337. There were 200 male and female singers, and they had 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels, and 6,720 donkeys. That is just incredible! Can you imagine leaving a place of bondage and that many people coming out on the other side! Look at their possessions! God is so good to His people!
Verses 68-70 Temple Gifts
The exiled people freely gave gifts and offerings for the temple. They freely gave all they could including 61,000 gold coins, 6,250 pounds of silver, and 100 priestly garments to the treasury for the project. I am sure they were happy to give to the temple. I cannot imagine how happy they were to be free!
I realize it is not as exciting to read this chapter as it is to read about some of the great acts of faith and exploits we read in different parts of the Bible, but it is rich history. It is needful to learn and study these minor prophets. There is so much background information you can find online for free that can help. I search commentaries, blogs, and sermon notes along with my Women's Study Bible to aide in my study. I love God's Word and want to learn as much as I can.
I hope that you have learned something this week. Be sure to read through Ezra chapter three for next week. It is a much shorter chapter and I look forward to sharing more about it next time. God bless you!
~Bridgett Owens
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