The "List of Returning Exiles" refers to the groups of Jewish captives who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylonian exile following the decree of Cyrus the Great, the Persian king. This event marks a significant moment in Jewish history, as it fulfilled the prophetic promises of restoration and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. The primary biblical accounts of the returning exiles are found in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah.

Historical Context

The Babylonian exile began in 586 BC when Nebuchadnezzar II, the Babylonian king, destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, taking many Jews captive to Babylon. The exile lasted approximately 70 years, as prophesied by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11-12). In 539 BC, Cyrus the Great conquered Babylon and issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1-4).

The First Return under Zerubbabel

The first group of exiles returned under the leadership of Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David, and Jeshua the high priest. This return is detailed in Ezra 2 and Nehemiah 7, which provide a list of the families and individuals who made the journey. According to Ezra 2:64-65 , "The whole assembly numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants, as well as their 200 male and female singers." This group laid the foundation for the Second Temple and reinstituted the sacrificial system.

The Second Return under Ezra

Ezra, a scribe and priest, led a second group of exiles back to Jerusalem around 458 BC. This return is recorded in Ezra 7-8. Ezra was tasked with teaching the Law of Moses and restoring religious order among the people. Ezra 8:1-14 lists the heads of the families who accompanied him, emphasizing the continuity of the priestly and Levitical lines.

The Third Return under Nehemiah

Nehemiah, a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia, led the third return around 445 BC. His mission was to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which had remained in ruins since the Babylonian destruction. The account of Nehemiah's return and the rebuilding efforts is found in the book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 7 reiterates the list of those who returned with Zerubbabel, underscoring the unity and shared purpose of the returning community.

Significance of the Lists

The lists of returning exiles serve several purposes. They provide a historical record of the families and individuals who participated in the restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple. They also highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people to their land. The genealogical records were crucial for reestablishing the priesthood and ensuring the purity of the Israelite community, as seen in Ezra 2:59-63, where those unable to prove their lineage were excluded from the priesthood.

Theological Implications

The return from exile is a testament to God's faithfulness and sovereignty. It demonstrates His ability to use foreign rulers, like Cyrus, to accomplish His divine purposes. The restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem foreshadows the ultimate redemption and restoration promised through the Messiah. The returning exiles' commitment to rebuilding the Temple and reestablishing worship underscores the centrality of God's presence among His people.

Conclusion

The lists of returning exiles in Ezra and Nehemiah are more than mere historical records; they are a testament to God's enduring covenant with Israel and His unwavering commitment to His promises. Through the leadership of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish people were able to reclaim their identity and renew their covenant relationship with God.