Ezra 8:7

from the descendants of Elam, Jeshaiah son of Athaliah, and with him 70 men;

Study Bible

from the descendants of Elam
The phrase "from the descendants of Elam" refers to a specific lineage within the Israelite community. Elam is one of the sons of Shem, as mentioned in Genesis 10:22, and his descendants are often associated with a region east of Babylon. Historically, Elam was a significant civilization in ancient Persia, known for its rich culture and influence. In the context of Ezra, the mention of Elam signifies the diverse backgrounds of those returning to Jerusalem, highlighting the unity of God's people despite their varied origins. This unity is a testament to God's covenantal faithfulness, drawing His people back from exile to restore them as a nation.

Jeshaiah son of Athaliah
"Jeshaiah son of Athaliah" introduces us to a specific individual among the returnees. The name Jeshaiah means "Yahweh is salvation," which is a powerful reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness. Athaliah, meaning "Yahweh is exalted," further emphasizes the divine focus of these names. In a historical context, names were often prophetic or reflective of one's character or destiny. Jeshaiah's inclusion in this list underscores the importance of each individual's role in the collective mission of rebuilding and restoring Jerusalem. It serves as an inspiration that God knows each of His followers by name and has a purpose for them in His divine plan.

and with him 70 men
The phrase "and with him 70 men" indicates the number of people accompanying Jeshaiah. The number 70 holds significant biblical symbolism, often representing completeness or a large, rounded group. For instance, Moses appointed 70 elders to help him lead Israel (Numbers 11:16-25), and Jesus sent out 70 disciples in pairs (Luke 10:1). In the context of Ezra, the 70 men symbolize a substantial and complete group committed to the task of returning to Jerusalem. This number reflects the organized and purposeful nature of the return, as well as the communal effort required to fulfill God's purposes. It serves as an encouragement that God equips and sends His people in unity to accomplish His will, ensuring that His plans are carried out through collective obedience and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elam
A family or clan within the Israelite community. The descendants of Elam were among those returning from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. Elam is also a region mentioned in the Bible, but here it refers to a family lineage.

2. Jeshaiah
The son of Athaliah, Jeshaiah is a leader among the returning exiles. His name means "Yahweh is salvation," reflecting a common theme of reliance on God.

3. Athaliah
The father of Jeshaiah. Not much is known about him, but his inclusion signifies the importance of lineage and heritage in the Jewish community.

4. 70 Men
This group accompanied Jeshaiah, representing a significant number of people committed to the journey back to Jerusalem. The number 70 often symbolizes completeness or a significant group in biblical terms.

5. Return from Exile
This event marks the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem, a pivotal moment in Jewish history that signifies restoration and renewal.

Teaching Points

Heritage and Identity
The mention of specific names and lineages highlights the importance of knowing one's heritage and identity in God's plan. As believers, understanding our spiritual heritage in Christ is crucial.

Leadership and Responsibility
Jeshaiah's role as a leader among the exiles underscores the responsibility of leadership in guiding others towards God's purposes. We are called to lead by example in our communities.

Commitment to God's Plan
The 70 men who accompanied Jeshaiah demonstrate commitment and unity in pursuing God's plan. We are encouraged to commit ourselves fully to God's calling, even when it requires sacrifice.

Restoration and Hope
The return from exile is a powerful symbol of God's ability to restore and renew. In our lives, we can trust God to bring restoration and hope, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance does the lineage of Elam have in the context of the return from exile, and how does this relate to our understanding of spiritual heritage today?

2. How does Jeshaiah's leadership role among the exiles inspire us to take on leadership responsibilities in our own faith communities?

3. In what ways can the commitment of the 70 men who accompanied Jeshaiah challenge us to be more committed to God's plans in our lives?

4. How does the theme of restoration in Ezra 8:7 connect with other biblical accounts of restoration, and what hope does this offer us today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's restoration in your life. How can this experience encourage others who are going through similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 2
Provides a broader list of those returning from exile, offering context to the specific mention of Jeshaiah and his group in Ezra 8:7.

Nehemiah 7
Also lists the exiles returning to Jerusalem, showing the continuity and importance of these genealogies in the restoration of Israel.

Isaiah 11:11
Speaks of the Lord gathering the remnant of His people, which connects to the theme of return and restoration seen in Ezra.