the descendants of Bezai, 323; the descendants of BezaiThe phrase "the descendants of Bezai" refers to a specific family lineage within the returning exiles. The name "Bezai" is of Hebrew origin, possibly meaning "conqueror" or "strong." This highlights the importance of family and heritage in the Jewish tradition, where genealogies were meticulously recorded to preserve tribal and familial identities. The mention of Bezai's descendants underscores the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, as these families were part of the remnant returning to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people through exile and bringing them back to their promised land. 323 Persons / Places / Events 1. BezaiA family head whose descendants returned from the Babylonian exile. The name "Bezai" is of Hebrew origin, possibly meaning "conqueror" or "strong." This family is listed among those who returned to Jerusalem to help rebuild the temple and restore the community. 2. The Return from Exile This event marks the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem, as decreed by King Cyrus of Persia. It was a significant moment of restoration and renewal for the Israelites. 3. The Census of Returnees Ezra 2 provides a detailed list of the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem. This census underscores the importance of community and continuity in the Jewish faith and heritage. Teaching Points The Importance of Heritage and IdentityThe listing of names and numbers in Ezra 2, including the descendants of Bezai, highlights the importance of knowing one's heritage and identity in God's plan. It reminds us that each person and family has a role in the community of faith. God's Faithfulness in Restoration The return from exile is a testament to God's faithfulness in restoring His people. It encourages believers to trust in God's promises and His ability to bring renewal and hope, even after periods of hardship. Community and Collective Responsibility The collective return and rebuilding effort underscore the importance of community and working together for a common purpose. It challenges us to contribute to the spiritual and physical rebuilding of our communities. The Role of Leadership in God's Plan Leaders like Bezai played a crucial role in guiding their families and communities back to Jerusalem. This teaches us the importance of godly leadership and the impact it can have on fulfilling God's purposes. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the inclusion of specific family names, like the descendants of Bezai, teach us about the value of individual contributions to God's work?2. How can we see God's faithfulness in our own lives, similar to how He was faithful to the Israelites during their return from exile? 3. In what ways can we contribute to the rebuilding and strengthening of our own faith communities today? 4. How does understanding our spiritual heritage and identity help us in our walk with God? 5. What qualities should we look for in leaders within our faith communities, and how can we support them in their roles? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 7This chapter parallels Ezra 2, providing another account of the returnees. It highlights the importance of community records and the continuity of God's people. 1 Chronicles 9 Chronicles also lists genealogies and the return from exile, emphasizing the restoration of the people and their roles in worship and community life. Isaiah 44:28 This prophecy speaks of Cyrus, who would decree the rebuilding of Jerusalem, connecting the return from exile to God's sovereign plan.
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 323, Be'zai, Hundred, Sons, Twenty, Twenty-threeDictionary 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 2:17 NIVEzra 2:17 NLT Ezra 2:17 ESV Ezra 2:17 NASB Ezra 2:17 KJV Ezra 2:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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