Nehemiah 7:59

the descendants of Shephatiah, the descendants of Hattil, the descendants of Pochereth-hazzebaim, and the descendants of Amon.

Study Bible

Shephatiah
The name "Shephatiah" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh has judged" or "Yahweh is judge." This name reflects a deep-seated belief in the justice and sovereignty of God, a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. The presence of this name in the list of returnees underscores the importance of divine justice and the hope for restoration that the Israelites held as they returned from exile. It serves as a reminder of God's ongoing role as the ultimate judge and protector of His people.

Hattil
The name "Hattil" is less common and its exact meaning is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be of Hebrew origin. The inclusion of such names in the genealogical records of Nehemiah highlights the meticulous care taken to preserve the identity and heritage of the returning exiles. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness in maintaining the lineage and identity of His chosen people, even through periods of displacement and hardship.

Pokereth-hazzebaim
This name is unique and somewhat enigmatic, possibly meaning "snaring of the gazelles" or "binding of the gazelles." The unusual nature of this name may indicate a family or clan with a distinctive history or role within the community. Its presence in the list serves as a testament to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those who returned to Jerusalem, emphasizing the inclusivity and unity of God's people despite their varied pasts.

Amon
The name "Amon" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "faithful" or "trustworthy." This name is significant as it reflects a key attribute that God desires in His people. The inclusion of Amon in the genealogical record serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required of the Israelites as they sought to rebuild their community and reestablish their covenant relationship with God. It also points to the faithfulness of God Himself, who remained steadfast in His promises to His people throughout their history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shephatiah
A family listed among those returning from exile. The name means "Yahweh has judged" in Hebrew, indicating a connection to divine justice.

2. Hattil
Another family mentioned in the list. The name may mean "diminished" or "small," possibly reflecting their status or humility.

3. Pochereth-hazzebaim
A family name that translates to "the snaring of the gazelles," which could symbolize agility or elusiveness.

4. Amon
A family name that might be linked to the Egyptian god Amun, but in this context, it represents a group returning to Jerusalem.

5. The Return from Exile
The broader event in which these families are participating, marking a significant moment of restoration and renewal for the Jewish people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Identity
The detailed listing of families underscores the value of each individual and family in God's plan. Our identity in Christ is similarly significant.

Faithfulness in Small Things
Names like Hattil remind us that even those who seem small or insignificant have a role in God's kingdom.

Restoration and Renewal
The return from exile is a powerful image of spiritual renewal, encouraging us to seek restoration in our own lives through repentance and obedience.

Community and Belonging
The collective return of these families highlights the importance of community in our faith journey. We are called to support and uplift one another.

God's Sovereignty in History
The return from exile demonstrates God's control over historical events, reassuring us of His sovereignty in our personal lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed listing of families in Nehemiah 7:59 reflect the value God places on individual identity and community?

2. In what ways can we see the theme of restoration in our own lives, similar to the return from exile?

3. How does the parallel account in Ezra 2 enhance our understanding of the events in Nehemiah 7?

4. What lessons can we learn from the seemingly small or insignificant names listed in this chapter about our own roles in God's kingdom?

5. How does the return from exile in Nehemiah connect to the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 2
This chapter provides a parallel list of those returning from exile, highlighting the continuity and consistency in the records of the returning exiles.

Nehemiah 8
Following the list in Nehemiah 7, this chapter describes the public reading of the Law, emphasizing the importance of returning not just physically but spiritually to God's ways.

Isaiah 11:11-12
This prophecy speaks of the gathering of the exiles, connecting the return in Nehemiah to the broader theme of restoration in the prophetic literature.