Ezra 2:58
French (La Bible expliquée)
Ensemble, les groupes des employés subalternes du temple et des descendants des serviteurs de Salomon comprenaient 392 hommes. Le sacerdoce juif était héréditaire. Prêtres et lévites devaient prouver leur appartenance à la tribu de Lévi. Les prêtres offraient les sacrifices et présidaient les cérémonies. Les nombreux services du culte étaient assurés par les lévites. Après l'exil, pour accepter ou exclure du ministère sacerdotal ceux qui n'avaient plus les documents pour prouver leur descendance, on se servait d'objets sacrés, l' Ourim et le Toummim (v. 63). Le grand-prêtre les portait sur lui et les tirait au sort pour connaître la volonté de Dieu en réponse aux questions des Israélites (Ex 28.30).
What Does This Mean?
This verse lists the number of Nethinims and Solomon's servants, which totaled 392 people. The Nethinims were temple servants, and Solomon's servants were people who worked for the temple and the king. It's a part of the list of people returning from exile in Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem.
Explained for Children
Imagine a school club where some kids help clean the classroom and others help the teacher. This verse is like a roll call, saying how many kids are in the club. It's about 392 people who were special helpers for God's house, the temple.
Historical Background
The Book of Ezra was written by the prophet Ezra around the 5th century BCE. The text was written for the Jewish people returning from exile in Babylon. The cultural setting was one of rebuilding and re-establishing their identity and faith after a long period of captivity.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse reminds us of the importance of community roles. Just like the Nethinims and Solomon's servants had specific roles in rebuilding the temple, each of us has a unique part to play in our communities and workplaces. Whether it's a small or large role, every contribution counts.
Topics
community rolesrebuildingservanthoodJewish historyexilereturn
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the Nethinims?
The Nethinims were temple servants who were appointed to assist in the maintenance and operations of the temple. They were not priests but played a crucial role in temple services.
What is the significance of the number 392?
The number 392 represents the total number of Nethinims and Solomon's servants. This specific count highlights the organized nature of the return and the meticulous recording of those involved in rebuilding Jerusalem.
How does this verse relate to the broader context of Ezra?
This verse is part of a larger census of those returning from exile. It shows the diverse roles and groups involved in the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple.
What can we learn from the roles of these servants in our modern lives?
We can learn that every role, no matter how small or unseen, is important in contributing to the greater good of a community or organization.