the descendants of Ater (through Hezekiah), 98; the descendants of AterThe phrase "the descendants of Ater" refers to a specific family lineage within the post-exilic community of Israel. The name "Ater" means "left-handed" or "bound" in Hebrew, which may indicate a characteristic or notable trait of the family's ancestor. This lineage is significant as it represents the continuity of the Jewish people returning from Babylonian exile. The mention of specific families underscores the importance of heritage and identity in the restoration of Jerusalem. It highlights the faithfulness of God in preserving His people through generations, even in times of displacement and hardship. through Hezekiah 98 Persons / Places / Events 1. NehemiahA Jewish leader who played a crucial role in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. He was a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes and was appointed as governor of Judah. 2. Ater A family or clan mentioned in the genealogical records of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name "Ater" means "left-handed" or "bound." 3. Hezekiah Likely a descendant or notable member of the Ater family. The name "Hezekiah" means "Yahweh strengthens." 4. Jerusalem The city whose walls Nehemiah was tasked with rebuilding. It holds significant religious and historical importance for the Jewish people. 5. The Return from Exile The event where the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity, as decreed by King Cyrus of Persia. Teaching Points Faithfulness in Small DetailsThe inclusion of specific family names and numbers in genealogies underscores the importance of each individual in God's plan. Every person matters in the community of faith. God's Sovereignty in Restoration The return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem illustrate God's control over history and His ability to restore His people, even after periods of judgment. The Importance of Heritage and Legacy Understanding one's spiritual heritage can inspire faithfulness and commitment to God's purposes. The descendants of Ater through Hezekiah remind us of the lasting impact of a godly legacy. Community and Identity The genealogical records emphasize the collective identity of God's people. Our identity in Christ connects us to a larger community with a shared mission. Perseverance in Rebuilding Just as Nehemiah and the returned exiles persevered in rebuilding Jerusalem, believers are called to persevere in building their spiritual lives and communities. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the detailed record of families in Nehemiah 7:21 reflect God's care for each individual in His plan?2. In what ways can understanding our spiritual heritage strengthen our faith and commitment to God's purposes? 3. How does the account of the return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty during challenging times? 4. What lessons can we learn from the perseverance of Nehemiah and the exiles in rebuilding Jerusalem that apply to our spiritual lives today? 5. How can we contribute to the building and strengthening of our faith community, drawing inspiration from the collective identity of God's people in Nehemiah's time? Connections to Other Scriptures Ezra 2This chapter provides a parallel account of the families and individuals who returned from exile, including the descendants of Ater. It highlights the continuity and faithfulness of God's people in returning to their homeland. Isaiah 44:28 This verse prophesies the decree of Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem, connecting to the broader account of restoration and God's sovereignty in using foreign rulers to fulfill His purposes. 2 Kings 20 The account of King Hezekiah, who shares a name with the descendant mentioned in Nehemiah 7:21, provides insight into the faithfulness and leadership qualities associated with the name.
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 98, Eight, Family, Hezekiah, Hezeki'ah, Namely, Ninety, Ninety-eight, SonsDictionary 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 7:21 NIVNehemiah 7:21 NLT Nehemiah 7:21 ESV Nehemiah 7:21 NASB Nehemiah 7:21 KJV Nehemiah 7:21 Commentaries Bible Hub |