Ezra 2:25

the men of Kiriath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, 743;

Study Bible

the men of Kiriath-jearim
Kiriath-jearim, meaning "City of Forests," is a significant location in biblical history. It was one of the Gibeonite cities that made a treaty with Joshua (Joshua 9:17). This city later became notable as the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant for twenty years before King David moved it to Jerusalem (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The mention of "the men of Kiriath-jearim" in Ezra 2:25 highlights the continuity of the Israelite community, emphasizing their return to their ancestral lands after the Babylonian exile. This return signifies God's faithfulness in restoring His people to their promised inheritance, a theme that resonates with the hope of spiritual restoration and renewal.

Chephirah
Chephirah, meaning "village" or "lioness," was another Gibeonite city. Its inclusion in the list of returning exiles underscores the importance of even the smaller, less prominent communities in the grand narrative of Israel's restoration. The Gibeonites, originally Canaanites who tricked Israel into making a peace treaty, were later integrated into the Israelite community (Joshua 9). This integration serves as a reminder of God's grace and the inclusivity of His covenant, extending mercy and a place within His people to those who seek Him.

Beeroth
Beeroth, meaning "wells," was also a Gibeonite city. The name itself evokes images of sustenance and life, as wells were crucial for survival in the arid climate of the region. The return of the "men of Beeroth" symbolizes the re-establishment of life and community in the land. It reflects the spiritual truth that God provides living water to His people, sustaining them through times of exile and hardship, and bringing them back to a place of spiritual abundance and community.

743
The specific number, 743, of the men returning from these towns, while seemingly mundane, is significant in its precision. It reflects the meticulous care with which the chronicler recorded the returnees, emphasizing the importance of each individual in God's plan. This attention to detail assures us that God knows each of His people by name and values their unique contributions to His kingdom. It serves as an encouragement that no one is forgotten in the eyes of the Lord, and each person has a role in the unfolding of His divine purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kiriath-jearim
A city in the territory of Judah, known for being a resting place for the Ark of the Covenant before it was moved to Jerusalem by King David. It holds historical and religious significance in Israel's history.

2. Chephirah
A city of the Gibeonites, who made a treaty with Israel during the conquest of Canaan. It was part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin.

3. Beeroth
Another city of the Gibeonites, also within the territory of Benjamin. It is mentioned in the context of the returnees from the Babylonian exile.

Teaching Points

Historical Continuity and Faithfulness
The mention of these cities and their inhabitants underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving His people through history. Despite exile and displacement, the returnees are a testament to God's covenant promises.

Significance of Community
The listing of specific cities and their populations highlights the importance of community and identity in the restoration of Israel. It reminds us of the value of belonging to a faith community and contributing to its rebuilding and growth.

God's Sovereignty in Redemption
The return from exile is a powerful example of God's sovereignty and redemptive plan. It encourages believers to trust in God's timing and purpose, even in difficult circumstances.

Legacy and Heritage
The return of these specific groups to their ancestral lands speaks to the importance of spiritual and cultural heritage. It challenges us to consider the legacy we are building and passing on to future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the inclusion of specific cities and their populations in Ezra 2:25 teach us about the importance of community in God's plan?

2. How does the history of Kiriath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness to His people?

3. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the return of the exiles, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

4. How can the account of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 inform our understanding of God's grace and mercy towards those who seek Him, even through imperfect means?

5. Reflecting on the legacy and heritage of the returnees, what steps can we take to ensure that we are building a lasting spiritual legacy for future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
This chapter details the account of the Gibeonites, including the cities of Chephirah and Beeroth, who deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them. This connection highlights the historical background of these cities and their inhabitants.

1 Samuel 7:1-2
These verses describe the Ark of the Covenant being brought to Kiriath-jearim, emphasizing the city's religious significance.

Nehemiah 7:29
This passage parallels Ezra 2:25, listing the same cities and their inhabitants among those returning from exile, reinforcing the continuity of the Jewish community.