They had 736 horses, 245 mules, They hadThis phrase indicates possession and stewardship. In the context of the returning exiles, it reflects the resources and assets that the Israelites managed to preserve or acquire during their captivity. The Hebrew root for "had" (הָיָה, hayah) often implies existence or being, suggesting that these animals were not just possessions but vital components of their community's livelihood and survival. It underscores God's provision and faithfulness in sustaining His people even in exile. 736 horses 245 mules Persons / Places / Events 1. EzraA scribe and priest who led the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem from Babylon. He played a crucial role in the spiritual and physical restoration of the Jewish community. 2. Return from Exile The context of Ezra 2 is the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem, a significant event in Jewish history that marked the beginning of the restoration of the Jewish nation and worship. 3. Jerusalem The city to which the exiles returned, central to Jewish identity and worship. It was the location of the Temple, which was to be rebuilt. 4. Horses and Mules These animals were essential for transportation and labor, indicating the practical preparations and resources necessary for the journey and rebuilding efforts. 5. The Exiles The group of people returning from Babylon, representing the remnant of Israel who were committed to restoring their homeland and religious practices. Teaching Points God's ProvisionThe listing of resources, including horses and mules, demonstrates God's provision for His people. Just as God provided for the exiles, He provides for our needs today. Preparation for God's Work The detailed account of resources underscores the importance of preparation in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to be diligent and wise stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Faithfulness in Small Details The meticulous record-keeping in Ezra 2 reflects the value of faithfulness in small details. Our attention to detail in our spiritual and practical lives honors God. Community and Cooperation The return from exile required the cooperation of the entire community. Similarly, fulfilling God's mission today involves working together as the body of Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the detailed listing of resources in Ezra 2:66 reflect God's provision for His people, and how can we see God's provision in our own lives today?2. In what ways does the preparation for the return from exile in Ezra 2 inspire us to prepare for the tasks God has called us to? 3. How can we apply the principle of faithfulness in small details, as seen in the meticulous records of Ezra 2, to our daily walk with God? 4. What lessons can we learn from the cooperation of the exiles in rebuilding Jerusalem that can be applied to our church or community projects? 5. How do the themes of restoration and return in Ezra 2 connect with the broader biblical account of redemption, and how can this encourage us in our spiritual journey? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 7This chapter provides a parallel account of the returnees and their resources, emphasizing the continuity and consistency of the historical record. Zechariah 1 This passage speaks to the return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem, offering prophetic encouragement and divine assurance of God's plans for restoration. Isaiah 40 This chapter offers comfort to the exiles, promising that God will lead them back to their land, highlighting the theme of divine guidance and provision.
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 245, Forty, 736, Forty-five, Horses, Hundred, Mules, Seven, Six, Thirty, Thirty-six, TransportDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 2:1-67Library 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 2:66 NIVEzra 2:66 NLT Ezra 2:66 ESV Ezra 2:66 NASB Ezra 2:66 KJV Ezra 2:66 Commentaries Bible Hub |