the descendants of Elam, 1,254; the descendants of ElamThe phrase "the descendants of Elam" refers to a specific group of people who were part of the Jewish community returning from Babylonian exile. The name "Elam" is significant in biblical history, as it is associated with one of the sons of Shem, the son of Noah (Genesis 10:22). This connection highlights the continuity of God's covenantal promises through generations. The descendants of Elam were part of the exiles who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the temple, demonstrating their commitment to restoring their spiritual and cultural heritage. Historically, Elam was also a region east of Babylon, which may indicate that these descendants had connections to that area, further emphasizing the widespread dispersion and subsequent regathering of God's people. 1,254 Persons / Places / Events 1. NehemiahA Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, who led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the community. 2. Elam A family or clan within the Jewish community. The descendants of Elam are listed among those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. 3. Jerusalem The city central to Jewish identity and worship, which Nehemiah sought to restore both physically and spiritually. 4. Babylonian Exile The period when the Jewish people were taken captive to Babylon, after which they returned to Jerusalem under leaders like Nehemiah. 5. The Census Nehemiah 7 records a census of the people who returned from exile, emphasizing the restoration of the community and the importance of each family. Teaching Points Faithfulness Across GenerationsThe mention of the descendants of Elam reminds us of the importance of faithfulness to God across generations. Each family and individual plays a role in God's redemptive plan. The Importance of Community The census underscores the value of community and belonging. Every person is counted and matters in the body of Christ. Restoration and Hope Just as the exiles returned to Jerusalem, God offers restoration and hope to His people today. We are called to participate in His work of rebuilding and renewal. Identity in Christ Our identity is not just in our earthly lineage but in our spiritual heritage as children of God. We are part of a larger account that God is writing. Stewardship of Legacy We are stewards of the spiritual legacy passed down to us. It is our responsibility to nurture and pass on the faith to future generations. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the listing of the descendants of Elam in Nehemiah 7:12 encourage us to consider our own spiritual heritage and legacy?2. In what ways can we contribute to the restoration and strengthening of our own faith communities, similar to the rebuilding efforts in Nehemiah's time? 3. How does the concept of being counted among God's people, as seen in the census, influence our understanding of belonging and identity in the church today? 4. What parallels can we draw between the return from exile in Nehemiah's time and the spiritual restoration offered through Christ? 5. How can we ensure that our faith is passed down to future generations, and what practical steps can we take to nurture this legacy within our families and communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Ezra 2This chapter also lists the descendants of Elam among those who returned from exile, highlighting the continuity and faithfulness of God's people across generations. Isaiah 11:11 This prophecy speaks of God gathering His people from various lands, including Elam, showing God's promise to restore His people. Revelation 21:12-14 The New Jerusalem is described with gates named after the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the eternal significance of God's people and their restoration.
People Akkub, Amon, Asaph, Ater, Azariah, Azmaveth, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazlith, Besai, Bezai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagaba, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Hanani, Hananiah, Harhur, Harsha, Hashum, Hashupha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Hodevah, Immer, Israelites, Jaala, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebana, Lebanah, Levites, Mehida, Meunim, Mispereth, Mordecai, Nahamani, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nehum, Nekoda, Nephishesim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Perida, Phaseah, Pochereth, Raamiah, Reaiah, Rezin, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Sia, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Tamah, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Babylon, Beeroth, Beth-azmaveth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Gibeon, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-jearim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics 1, 254, Fifty, Fifty-four, Hundred, Sons, ThousandDictionary of Bible Themes Nehemiah 7:5-69Library "Take My Yoke Upon You, and Learn of Me," &C. Matt. xi. 20.--"Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me," &c. Self love is generally esteemed infamous and contemptible among men. It is of a bad report every where, and indeed as it is taken commonly, there is good reason for it, that it should be hissed out of all societies, if reproaching and speaking evil of it would do it. But to speak the truth, the name is not so fit to express the thing, for that which men call self love, may rather be called self hatred. Nothing is more pernicious to a man's … Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah The Strait Gate; Influences that Gave Rise to the Priestly Laws and Histories Ezra-Nehemiah Links Nehemiah 7:12 NIVNehemiah 7:12 NLT Nehemiah 7:12 ESV Nehemiah 7:12 NASB Nehemiah 7:12 KJV Nehemiah 7:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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