Ezra 2:16

Azerbajani (Azərbaycan Bibliyası 2008)

What Does This Mean?

Ezra 2:16 lists the number of people from a family line called Ater, who were descendants of Hezekiah, and there were ninety-eight of them. This is part of a detailed census of those returning from exile to rebuild Jerusalem.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're counting how many people in your family are coming to a big family reunion. This verse tells us that 98 people from a family named Ater, who were related to someone called Hezekiah, were coming back home after being away for a long time.

Historical Background

Ezra, written around 450 BC, records the return of the Jewish people from exile in Babylon. This verse is part of a detailed list of families and individuals who returned to rebuild the Temple and Jerusalem. The audience was the returning Jewish community and future generations.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse reminds us of the importance of community and knowing our roots. Just like these 98 people, we too can trace our heritage and find strength in our family and community ties.

Topics

communityheritagerebuildingreturn from exilecensusfamily

Related Verses

Numbers 1:1-41 Chronicles 9:1-2Ezra 2:64-65Luke 2:3-5John 10:14-16

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is genealogy important in Ezra 2:16?
Genealogy was crucial for establishing the identity and rights of those returning to rebuild Jerusalem, ensuring their place in the community and their access to their ancestral lands.
Who was Hezekiah in relation to Ater?
Hezekiah was an ancestor of Ater, and this verse lists the descendants of Ater who returned from exile, emphasizing the continuity of their lineage.
What does this census tell us about the community?
The census provides insight into the organizational and social structure of the returning community, highlighting the importance of family ties and the collective effort to rebuild.
How does this verse relate to the overall message of Ezra?
This verse is part of a larger narrative of restoration and rebuilding. It underscores the importance of every individual and family in the process of rebuilding the Temple and Jerusalem.
Compare Ezra 2:16 across all translations →