the descendants of Elam, 1,254; the descendants of ElamThe phrase "the descendants of Elam" refers to a specific family group among the Israelites who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name "Elam" is of Hebrew origin, possibly meaning "eternity" or "hidden." Historically, Elam was also a region east of Babylon, but in this context, it refers to a family lineage within the tribe of Judah. This highlights the importance of family and tribal identity in post-exilic Israel, as the returning exiles sought to reestablish their heritage and fulfill God's promises to their ancestors. The mention of Elam underscores the continuity of God's covenant with His people, despite the disruptions of exile. 1,254 Persons / Places / Events 1. ElamElam is a name that appears multiple times in the Bible, referring to different individuals and a region. In this context, it refers to a family or clan that returned from the Babylonian exile. The name Elam is of Hebrew origin, possibly meaning "eternity" or "hidden." 2. Babylonian Exile This was a period when the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians. The return from exile, as documented in the book of Ezra, marks a significant event in Jewish history, symbolizing restoration and renewal. 3. Return to Jerusalem The return of the exiles to Jerusalem is a pivotal event in the Old Testament, representing God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to their land to rebuild the temple and restore worship. Teaching Points Faithfulness in Small DetailsThe specific mention of numbers and names in Ezra 2:7 underscores the importance of each individual in God's plan. God values each person and their role in His redemptive history. Restoration and Hope The return of the exiles, including the descendants of Elam, is a testament to God's promise of restoration. It encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness to restore and renew. Community and Identity The listing of families and clans highlights the importance of community and identity in the faith journey. Believers are encouraged to find their place within the body of Christ and contribute to the community's mission. Historical Continuity Understanding the historical context of the return from exile helps believers appreciate the continuity of God's work throughout history and His unchanging nature. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the inclusion of specific family names and numbers in Ezra 2:7 teach us about God's attention to detail and care for individuals?2. How does the return of the exiles, including the descendants of Elam, inspire hope for restoration in our personal lives and communities today? 3. In what ways can we contribute to the restoration and rebuilding of our spiritual communities, similar to the role of the returning exiles? 4. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile and return enhance our appreciation of God's faithfulness throughout the Bible? 5. What lessons can we learn from the theme of community and identity in Ezra 2:7, and how can we apply these lessons to strengthen our own faith communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 7:12This verse also lists the descendants of Elam among those who returned, showing consistency in the records of those who came back to Jerusalem. Isaiah 11:11 This prophecy speaks of God gathering His people from various lands, including Elam, highlighting the theme of restoration and return. Jeremiah 49:34-39 These verses contain a prophecy against Elam, which can be seen as a broader reference to God's dealings with nations and His ultimate plan for restoration.
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 1, 254, Fifty, Fifty-four, Hundred, Sons, ThousandDictionary 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 2:7 NIVEzra 2:7 NLT Ezra 2:7 ESV Ezra 2:7 NASB Ezra 2:7 KJV Ezra 2:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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