Ezra 2:19

Ezra 2:19 is a concise entry within a comprehensive list detailing the families and their numbers who returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile. Specifically, it records the "children of Hashum, two hundred twenty and three." This seemingly simple verse is part of a meticulous census, underscoring the careful organization and identity preservation of the returning Jewish community.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is situated in Ezra Chapter 2, which serves as a vital register of the first wave of Jewish exiles returning to Judah after King Cyrus of Persia issued his decree allowing them to return and rebuild the Temple. This event, occurring around 538 BC, marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history, signifying the end of the 70-year Babylonian captivity prophesied by Jeremiah. The list in Ezra 2, which is remarkably similar to the one found in Nehemiah 7:6-65, emphasizes the importance of lineage and tribal identity for the restoration of the nation, the proper allocation of land, and the re-establishment of religious roles, particularly for priests and Levites.

Key Themes and Messages

• Identity and Lineage: The detailed enumeration of families like the "children of Hashum" highlights the profound importance of genealogical records for the Jewish people. This was crucial for maintaining their distinct identity, proving their heritage, and ensuring the purity of the priestly lines after generations in a foreign land.
• Divine Providence and Restoration: The very act of this return, facilitated by a pagan king's decree, is seen as God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people (Jeremiah 29:10). Each number, including the 223 from Hashum's family, represents individuals who were part of God's grand plan of restoring Judah.
• Meticulous Record-Keeping: The precision of the numbers ("two hundred twenty and three") reflects the diligence in recording every returnee. This meticulousness was not merely for administrative purposes but also for establishing a legitimate foundation for the new community in Jerusalem, ensuring accountability and order in the rebuilding efforts.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Hashum" (Hebrew: חָשׁוּם, Chashum) is a proper name, likely meaning "rich" or "wealthy." While the name itself doesn't offer profound theological insight here, its inclusion, along with a precise count, underscores the concrete, historical reality of these individuals. The exact number, "two hundred twenty and three," signifies a careful census, indicating that the leaders took great care to document every family unit and individual who participated in this significant return from exile. This level of detail reinforces the authenticity and historical accuracy of the biblical narrative.

Practical Application

Though seemingly a simple numerical entry, Ezra 2:19 offers several practical insights:

• Value of Every Individual: Even in a long list, each family and number represents real people whom God cared for and brought back. It reminds us that God sees and values every individual within a larger community or movement.
• Importance of Heritage and Roots: Just as the children of Hashum knew their lineage, we are encouraged to understand our own spiritual and historical heritage, appreciating the foundations laid by those who came before us.
• God's Order in Restoration: The detailed records show that God's work of restoration is often orderly and precise. He works through specific people and events, paying attention to the details necessary for His larger plan to unfold. This provides assurance that God's plans are thoroughly considered and executed.