Meaning and Interpretation of Ezra 2:17
Ezra 2:17 reads: "The children of Azgad, two thousand three hundred twenty and two."
Overview
This verse lists the number of descendants of Azgad among those returning from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem. This detailed account of the groups returning to their homeland emphasizes the importance of records and genealogies in the restoration of God's people.
Historical Context
The return from Babylonian captivity was a significant event in Jewish history. It marked the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people. The census like nature of Ezra's narrative serves several purposes including establishing identity, lineage, and fulfilling prophecies regarding the return from exile.
Commentary Insights
- Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the collective identity regained by the people and the significance of each individual’s return. The meticulous record-keeping reflects God's faithfulness to His promises and the honor of each returning family.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes highlights that the names and numbers indicated order and organization. Each family, including the children of Azgad, had a role to play in rebuilding the community and the temple in Jerusalem.
- Adam Clarke: Clarke notes that the mention of Azgad as a family reaffirms the covenant promise made to the descendants of Abraham. It illustrates God's ongoing relationship with His people and the regeneration of their faith and culture.
Thematic Connections
Ezra 2:17 serves as a link between the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament fulfilments. The significance of numbers in the scripture serves as a constant reminder of God's promise of land and heritage to His people.
Bible Verse Cross-References
- Jeremiah 29:10-14 - God’s promise of restoration.
- Nehemiah 7:15 - Another record of returning exiles.
- Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus, God’s instrument for restoration.
- Ezra 1:1-5 - The decree for the return to Jerusalem.
- 1 Chronicles 9:1 - Genealogies of those returning from exile.
- Haggai 1:14 - Stirring up the spirit of the people to rebuild.
- Zechariah 8:3-8 - God’s promise to restore the city.
- Malachi 3:6 - God's unchanging relationship with Israel.
- Matthew 1:12 - Genealogy of Jesus related to the tribes.
- Revelation 21:12 - The names of the tribes of Israel in the New Jerusalem.
Conclusion
Understanding Ezra 2:17 requires recognition of its place within the larger narrative of the return from exile. This verse invites readers to delve into comparative Bible verse analysis, exploring the rich connections between various scriptures. By examining the restoration of the people of Israel, one uncovers the overarching themes of hope, identity, and God's faithfulness throughout the Bible.
Further Study Resources
- Bible Concordance: A tool for identifying specific verses related to themes.
- Bible Cross-reference Guide: Helps in finding connections between scripture.
- Cross-reference Bible Study: Methods to link scripture based on thematic or doctrinal similarity.
- Bible Reference Resources: Tools for understanding deeper meanings of passages.
