Summary of the Verse Meaning

This verse is part of a detailed list of those who returned from Babylonian exile and settled in the city of Jerusalem. It highlights the specific groups and their numbers that constituted the remnant of Israel. The mention of "Beth-azmaveth" signifies a location and the individuals from that area, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming their homeland after captivity.

Commentary Insights

The interpretation of Nehemiah 7:26 finds valuable insights in commentaries by notable theologians:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry reflects on the returning exiles as representatives of God's faithfulness, acknowledging each group by name underscores their individual contribution to the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This acknowledgment serves as an encouragement to those who participated in this significant historical and spiritual restoration.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes the precision in the counting of individuals, illustrating the care and organization that went into the resettlement process. He further emphasizes that these records serve to remind future generations of the promise and providence of God in preserving a remnant.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the significance of recognizing these families and their lineage. He connects this to the broader context of covenant and community in Israel, asserting that each family represented a segment of Israel's story and identity.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 7:26 relates to several other Bible verses that provide context and deepen the understanding of the themes present:

• Ezra 2:24 - "The children of Beth-azmaveth, two hundred twenty and three."
• Nehemiah 7:7 - A recount of those who returned with Zerubbabel, establishing a broader community context.
• 1 Chronicles 9:2 - Illustrating the historical records of those who returned to Jerusalem.
• Ezra 3:1 - Describing the gathering of those returning to Jerusalem, reinforcing the community aspect.
• Nehemiah 7:8 - Listing various families, highlighting the importance of lineage.
• Isaiah 11:11 - Prophetic restoration of Israel, linking to the fulfillment found in Nehemiah.
• Nehemiah 3:1 - Documentation of the rebuilding efforts which the people organized post-exile.
• Jeremiah 29:10-14 - God's promise during exile, leading to restoration.
• Haggai 2:4-5 - Encouragement to the people of Israel during their rebuilding phase.
• Revelation 21:12 - Reference to the names inscribed in the foundations of the New Jerusalem, showing continuity through the ages.

Connections Between Bible Verses

The thematic connections in Nehemiah 7:26 can be analyzed for deeper spiritual insights:

• Rebuilding and Restoration: Nehemiah’s efforts connect with the prophetic writings of Isaiah, denoting a restoration theme that is significant throughout Scripture.
• Covenantal Faithfulness: The list of returning exiles is a reminder of God's covenant with Israel, which can be observed in numerous parallel verses across the Old Testament.
• Community and Identity: The importance of family names serves as a powerful reminder of the community’s identity, prevalent in both Old and New Testament teachings.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This verse emphasizes themes such as:

• Faithfulness of God to His People: Throughout Scripture, including texts like Lamentations 3:22-23.
• The Remnant: Revealing God's remnant theme in passages like Romans 11:5.
• Restoration after Exile: Similar themes can also be found in Micah 4:6-7.

How to Use Bible Cross-References

Understanding how to find cross-references in the Bible can enhance one's study of scriptures. Here are some methods:

• Utilize tools for Bible cross-referencing found in concordances.
• Develop a system for identifying thematic connections like the ones outlined above.
• Engage in Bible cross-reference guides that highlight links between verses.
• Participate in cross-reference Bible studies to explore deeper theological meanings.

Conclusion

Nehemiah 7:26 is not just a simple record of numbers; it encapsulates a moment of hope, restoration, and the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people. By exploring connections between this verse and others, one gains a fuller understanding of its implications within the biblical narrative. Using tools for Bible cross-referencing will illuminate the broader themes of restoration, covenant, and community in the Scriptures.