Understanding Nehemiah 7:10
Verse: Nehemiah 7:10
“The children of Parez, two thousand a hundred seventy and two.”
Summary of Meaning
This verse is part of the genealogical records that Nehemiah compiled to account for the people returning to Jerusalem after the Babylonian Exile. The mention of the children of Parez highlights God’s faithfulness in preserving the lineage of His people.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Genealogical Importance: Matthew Henry emphasizes that the records serve a dual purpose: to assure the people of their heritage and to reflect God’s providential care over Israel. Genealogies were crucial in establishing identity, especially in a returning exile community.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Understanding Parez: Albert Barnes notes that Parez (or Perez) signifies a branch of the family of Judah, and by counting their numbers, Nehemiah could validate the community's strength and readiness to rebuild. This number—two thousand, one hundred seventy-two—indicates a significant return, manifesting the blessings and promises of God for restoration.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Census Significance: Adam Clarke points out the significance of the census in perpetuating the heritage of the Jewish people. He explains that such records not only reflect physical numbers but also the spiritual lineage that God has maintained throughout history.
Bible Cross-References
- 1 Chronicles 2:4: The genealogy of the tribe of Judah, where the lineage of Perez is recorded.
- Ruth 4:18-22: The genealogy leading to King David, mentioning Perez as a notable ancestor.
- Matthew 1:3: The genealogy of Jesus also includes Perez, demonstrating the fulfillment of promises through lineage.
- Nehemiah 11:6: Further census details of the children of Perez, emphasizing their significance in the post-exilic community.
- Exodus 6:23: The genealogy of Aaron and his descendants, connecting different lineages of Israel.
- Luke 3:33: The genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament, reaffirming the connection to Old Testament figures.
- Hebrews 7:14: References the tribe of Judah from which Jesus came, linking heritage with priesthood.
Connections between Bible Verses
Nehemiah 7:10 serves as a crucial link in understanding the restoration of Israel. It connects to various themes of lineage, restoration, and God’s promises. The connections become evident when compared with:
- Genealogy Themes: Nehemiah’s account shows the importance of maintaining family records as seen in 1 Chronicles and Ruth.
- Restoration Narratives: Like Ezra's accounts, Nehemiah’s census highlights the fulfillment of God’s promises to gather His people.
- Jesus’ Ancestry: Linking Hebrew lineage directly to the New Testament narratives emphasizes Jesus' rightful claim to David’s throne.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
For those studying the Bible, understanding connections like those in Nehemiah 7:10 is essential. Utilizing tools such as:
- Bible Concordance: Helps to find relevant verses easily.
- Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Gives directional guidance on related scriptures.
- Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methods for exploring scripture themes through navigation of connected verses.
Conclusion
In summary, Nehemiah 7:10 may be a simple census record, but it represents a deep understanding of identity, heritage, and God's providence. It is an essential verse that connects us to the larger Biblical narrative of redemption. The tools and cross-references allow for a richer understanding of the community’s restoration and God’s ongoing promises to His people.
