The temple servants and descendants of the servants of Solomon numbered 392 in all. The temple servantsThis phrase refers to a group known as the Nethinim, a term derived from the Hebrew root "nathan," meaning "to give" or "to dedicate." These individuals were given to the service of the temple, assisting the Levites in various duties. Historically, the Nethinim were likely non-Israelites who were integrated into the community to perform menial tasks, allowing the Levites to focus on more sacred duties. Their role underscores the inclusivity of God's work, where people from diverse backgrounds contribute to the worship and service of the Lord. and the descendants of the servants of Solomon numbered 392 in all Persons / Places / Events 1. Temple Servants (Nethinim)The Nethinim were a group of temple servants assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple. Their name means "given ones," indicating their dedication to temple service. They were likely non-Israelites who had been integrated into the community to perform menial tasks. 2. Descendants of the Servants of Solomon These were the descendants of the servants who had been appointed by King Solomon to assist in the construction and maintenance of the temple. They continued to serve in various capacities related to temple duties. 3. The Return from Exile This verse is part of a larger passage detailing the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. It highlights the restoration of the temple service as a priority for the returning community. Teaching Points The Importance of Service in God's KingdomThe inclusion of the temple servants and the descendants of Solomon's servants in the list of returnees highlights the value God places on service. Every role, no matter how humble, is significant in the functioning of God's house. Faithfulness Across Generations The descendants of the servants of Solomon continued in their roles, demonstrating faithfulness across generations. This encourages us to consider how we can pass on a legacy of service and faithfulness to future generations. Restoration and Renewal The return of the temple servants signifies a renewal of worship and dedication to God. It reminds us of the importance of restoring our own spiritual practices and commitments after periods of neglect or exile. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the role of the temple servants teach us about the diversity of gifts and roles within the body of Christ?2. How can we ensure that our service to God is passed down to future generations, as seen with the descendants of Solomon's servants? 3. In what ways can we contribute to the restoration and renewal of worship in our own communities? 4. How does understanding the historical context of the Nethinim and the servants of Solomon enhance our appreciation for their dedication? 5. What parallels can we draw between the return from exile and our own spiritual journeys of returning to God after a period of distance or neglect? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Chronicles 9:2This passage also mentions the Nethinim, providing context for their role and importance in the temple service. It shows continuity in their service from the time of the Chronicles to the return from exile. Nehemiah 7:60 Nehemiah's account of the return from exile includes a similar list, reinforcing the importance of the temple servants in the restoration of worship in Jerusalem. 1 Kings 9:21 This verse provides background on the origin of the servants of Solomon, explaining how they were part of the labor force used by Solomon for his building projects, including the temple.
People Akkub, Ami, Asaph, Asnah, Ater, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazluth, Besai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagab, Hagabah, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Harhur, Harsha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Immer, Israelites, Jaalah, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Jorah, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebanah, Mehida, Mehunim, Meunim, Mizpar, Mordecai, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nekoda, Nephusim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Peruda, Phaseah, Pochereth, Reaiah, Reelaiah, Rehum, Rezin, Seraiah, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Siaha, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Azmaveth, Babylon, Babylonia, Beeroth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-arim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics Descendants, Hundred, Nethinim, Nethinims, Ninety, Ninety-two, Servants, Solomon, Solomon's, Sons, TempleDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 2:1-65Library Altar and Temple'And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem. 2. Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. 3. And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Apocalypse. Barzillai The Historical Books. The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close. And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah Ezra-Nehemiah Links Ezra 2:58 NIVEzra 2:58 NLT Ezra 2:58 ESV Ezra 2:58 NASB Ezra 2:58 KJV Ezra 2:58 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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