435 camels, and 6,720 donkeys. 435 camelsThe mention of "435 camels" in this verse highlights the wealth and resources of the returning exiles. In the ancient Near East, camels were valuable assets, often used for long-distance travel and trade due to their ability to endure harsh desert conditions. The Hebrew word for camel, "גָּמָל" (gamal), signifies a beast of burden, essential for the transportation of goods and people. This number indicates the significant logistical planning and provision necessary for the journey back to Jerusalem. It reflects God's provision and the community's preparedness to undertake the arduous task of rebuilding their homeland. 6,720 donkeys Persons / Places / Events 1. EzraA scribe and priest who led the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem from Babylon. He is known for his dedication to the Law of Moses and his role in the spiritual and physical restoration of Jerusalem. 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 community and worship in Jerusalem. 3. Jerusalem The city to which the exiles returned. It was the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple, which was to be rebuilt. 4. Camels and Donkeys These animals were essential for transportation and carrying goods. Their mention highlights the logistical aspects of the return journey and the resources available to the returning exiles. 5. The Exiles The people of Israel who were taken into captivity in Babylon and are now returning to their homeland. This return was a fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people. Teaching Points God's ProvisionThe mention of camels and donkeys underscores God's provision for His people. Despite their exile, God ensured they had the necessary resources for their journey back to Jerusalem. Faithfulness in Small Details The detailed account of the animals shows that God cares about the specifics of our lives. We should trust Him with both the big and small aspects of our journey. Community and Cooperation The return involved a collective effort. The community worked together, pooling resources for the common goal of rebuilding Jerusalem. This teaches us the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving God's purposes. Fulfillment of Promises The return from exile is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises to us, even if it takes time. Stewardship of Resources The careful accounting of resources reminds us of the importance of stewardship. We are called to manage what God has given us wisely and for His glory. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the detailed listing of animals in Ezra 2:67 reflect God's provision for the returning exiles, and how can this encourage us in trusting God for our needs today?2. In what ways does the return from exile in Ezra parallel the spiritual journey of redemption and restoration in the New Testament? 3. How can the unity and cooperation of the returning exiles inspire us to work together in our church communities today? 4. What are some promises of God that you are waiting to see fulfilled in your life, and how does the faithfulness of God in Ezra encourage you to remain patient and hopeful? 5. How can we apply the principle of stewardship seen in the careful accounting of resources in Ezra 2:67 to our personal and communal lives today? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 7This chapter provides a parallel account of the returnees and their possessions, including animals, emphasizing the continuity and consistency of the biblical account. Isaiah 66:20 This verse speaks of the return of the exiles and the bringing of offerings to Jerusalem, symbolizing the restoration and renewal of worship. Genesis 12:16 This verse mentions camels as part of the wealth given to Abram, highlighting the significance of these animals in biblical times as symbols of wealth 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 6, 435, 720, Camels, Donkeys, Hundred, Seven, Six, Thirty, Thirty-five, Thousand, TwentyDictionary 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 2:67 NIVEzra 2:67 NLT Ezra 2:67 ESV Ezra 2:67 NASB Ezra 2:67 KJV Ezra 2:67 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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