the men of Michmash, 122; the men of MichmashThe phrase "the men of Michmash" refers to the inhabitants of a town called Michmash, which is located in the territory of Benjamin, north of Jerusalem. Historically, Michmash is significant in several biblical narratives. It was the site of a notable battle during the time of King Saul, where Jonathan, Saul's son, achieved a remarkable victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 13-14). The Hebrew root of Michmash, "מִכְמָשׂ" (Mikmash), suggests a place of hidden treasures or stores, which may reflect its strategic military importance. The mention of Michmash in Ezra 2:27 highlights the continuity of the Jewish community's connection to their ancestral lands, even after the Babylonian exile. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people and their heritage. 122 Persons / Places / Events 1. MichmasA town in the territory of Benjamin, mentioned in the context of the return of the exiles. It is significant in biblical history as a site of military importance, notably in the time of King Saul and Jonathan (1 Samuel 13-14). 2. The Men of Michmas This refers to the group of 122 men who returned from the Babylonian exile to rebuild their lives in their ancestral homeland. Their inclusion in the list underscores the importance of each family and community in the restoration of Israel. 3. The Return from Exile This event marks a pivotal moment in Jewish history when the Israelites, having been exiled to Babylon, were allowed to return to Jerusalem and Judah to rebuild the temple and restore their community. Teaching Points The Importance of CommunityThe mention of the men of Michmas highlights the value of each community in God's plan. Every group, no matter how small, plays a role in the larger account of restoration and redemption. Faithfulness in Small Numbers The relatively small number of returnees from Michmas (122) serves as a reminder that God values faithfulness over numbers. Even a small group can have a significant impact when aligned with God's purposes. Historical Continuity The return of the exiles to places like Michmas underscores the continuity of God's promises. Despite the exile, God remained faithful to His covenant with Israel, ensuring the restoration of His people. Personal and Communal Restoration Just as the men of Michmas returned to rebuild their community, believers today are called to participate in the restoration of their own lives and communities, aligning with God's redemptive work. Bible Study Questions 1. What significance does the town of Michmas hold in biblical history, and how does this enhance our understanding of Ezra 2:27?2. How does the return of the men of Michmas reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and what can we learn from this about His character? 3. In what ways can small groups or communities today contribute to the larger mission of the Church, similar to the men of Michmas? 4. How does the concept of restoration in Ezra 2:27 apply to personal spiritual growth and renewal in the life of a believer? 5. What other biblical events or prophecies involving Michmas can deepen our understanding of its role in Israel's history and God's plan? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 13-14Michmas is mentioned as a strategic location during the conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, highlighting its historical significance. Nehemiah 7:31 This verse parallels Ezra 2:27, listing the men of Michmas among those who returned, emphasizing the continuity and importance of these records in the restoration account. Isaiah 10:28 Michmas is mentioned in a prophecy concerning the Assyrian invasion, indicating its geographical and strategic importance.
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 122, Michmas, Twenty, Twenty-twoDictionary 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 2:27 NIVEzra 2:27 NLT Ezra 2:27 ESV Ezra 2:27 NASB Ezra 2:27 KJV Ezra 2:27 Commentaries Bible Hub |