The return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem is a significant event in biblical history, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their homeland after seventy years of captivity. This event is primarily documented in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which provide detailed accounts of the returnees and their efforts to rebuild the temple and the city of Jerusalem.

Biblical Context

The return from exile occurred in several waves, beginning in 538 B.C. under the decree of Cyrus, the king of Persia. This decree allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. The first group of returnees was led by Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David, and Jeshua, the high priest. Subsequent returns were led by Ezra, a scribe and priest, and Nehemiah, who became the governor of Judah.

The First Return under Zerubbabel

The book of Ezra provides a detailed list of the families and individuals who returned with Zerubbabel. Ezra 2:64-65 states, "The whole assembly numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants, as well as their 200 male and female singers." This initial group was tasked with laying the foundation of the second temple and reestablishing the worship practices that had been neglected during the exile.

The Return under Ezra

Ezra led a second group of exiles back to Jerusalem in 458 B.C. This return is documented in Ezra 8, where a list of the heads of families and the number of men accompanying them is provided. Ezra 8:1-14 details the families and their numbers, emphasizing the importance of reestablishing the priestly and Levitical orders in Jerusalem.

The Return under Nehemiah

Nehemiah's return in 445 B.C. focused on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, which had remained in ruins since the Babylonian conquest. Nehemiah 7 provides a census of the people who returned with him, which mirrors the list found in Ezra 2. Nehemiah 7:66-67 reiterates, "The whole assembly numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants, as well as their 245 male and female singers."

Significance of the Numbers

The numbers recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah highlight the remnant nature of the returnees. While the total number of returnees was significant, it represented only a fraction of the Jewish population that had been exiled. The emphasis on specific family names and numbers underscores the continuity of God's covenant people and the restoration of their identity and heritage.

Theological Implications

The return of the exiles is seen as a fulfillment of prophetic promises, particularly those found in Jeremiah 29:10 , "For this is what the LORD says: 'When Babylon’s seventy years are complete, I will attend to you and confirm My promise to restore you to this place.'" The returnees' journey back to Jerusalem is a testament to God's faithfulness and His sovereign plan for His people.

Challenges and Achievements

The returnees faced numerous challenges, including opposition from surrounding peoples, internal strife, and the daunting task of rebuilding a city and temple from ruins. Despite these obstacles, the returnees, under the leadership of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, successfully reestablished the temple worship and fortified the city, laying the groundwork for the future of the Jewish nation.

The total number of returnees, as recorded in the biblical texts, serves as a reminder of God's providence and the resilience of His people in the face of adversity.