Ezra 2:55

KJV

The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Peruda,

KJV (with Strong's)

The children {H1121} of Solomon's {H8010} servants {H5650}: the children {H1121} of Sotai {H5479}, the children {H1121} of Sophereth {H5618}, the children {H1121} of Peruda {H6514},

Complete Jewish Bible

The descendants of Shlomo's servants: descendants of Sotai, descendants of Hasoferet, descendants of P'ruda,

Berean Standard Bible

The descendants of the servants of Solomon: the descendants of Sotai, the descendants of Sophereth, the descendants of Peruda,

American Standard Version

The children of Solomon’s servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Hassophereth, the children of Peruda,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 2:55 is a precise entry within the comprehensive census of Jewish exiles returning from Babylonian captivity to Judah, marking a pivotal moment in the post-exilic restoration. This verse specifically enumerates three families—Sotai, Sophereth, and Peruda—who are identified as "the children of Solomon's servants." Their inclusion highlights the meticulous nature of the record-keeping and underscores the diverse composition of the returning community, encompassing not only ethnic Israelites but also those whose families had historically served in supportive roles for the Temple and the royal household.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 2 is a meticulously detailed register of the first wave of Jewish exiles who returned from Babylon to Judah under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, following King Cyrus's decree. This chapter serves as a foundational document, establishing the identity and legitimacy of the returning community. It lists various groups, including priests, Levites, common Israelites, and, significantly, temple servants like the Nethinim and "the children of Solomon's servants." The chapter immediately precedes the account of the rebuilding of the altar and the laying of the Temple's foundation in [Ezra chapter 3](/ezra/3 "Ezra 3 - Rebuilding the Altar and Temple Foundation"), emphasizing that the return was not merely a migration but a reconstitution of the covenant community centered on worship. The precise enumeration validates their claims to ancestral lands and roles, ensuring proper order and continuity for the restored nation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The return described in Ezra occurred after seventy years of Babylonian exile, a period of profound national and spiritual upheaval for the Jewish people. The Persian King Cyrus's decree (c. 538 BC) permitted and even encouraged the Jews to return and rebuild their Temple in Jerusalem, marking a significant turning point in their history. "The children of Solomon's servants" refer to the descendants of non-Israelite peoples whom King Solomon had conscripted for forced labor during his extensive building projects, particularly the construction of the First Temple and his royal complexes (as detailed in [1 Kings 9:20-21](/1_kings/9-20 "1 Kings 9:20-21 - Solomon's Forced Laborers")). Over centuries, these families had become integrated into Israelite society, often serving hereditary roles as temple assistants or general laborers for the sanctuary. Their inclusion in this census underscores the comprehensive nature of the return, encompassing not only those of pure Israelite lineage but also those who, through generations of service, had become intrinsically linked to the worship and life of God's people. This detail reflects the unique social fabric of ancient Israel, where diverse groups could become part of the broader community through their connection to the covenant and its institutions.

* **Key Themes:** The listing of "the children of Solomon's servants" in [Ezra chapter 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - The List of Returning Exiles") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Ezra and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **inclusivity of God's people**, demonstrating that belonging to the covenant community was not solely determined by ethnic origin but also by dedication to God's service and His house. This foreshadows a broader understanding of God's people that would fully blossom in the New Testament. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates **divine remembrance and restoration**, showing God's meticulous care and faithfulness even to those in historically subordinate or humble roles. Every individual and group, no matter their background, was remembered and given the opportunity to participate in the grand work of national and spiritual rebuilding. Lastly, their willingness to return to a challenging, desolate land underscores the theme of **faithfulness in service**, as these descendants continued their ancestral duty of supporting the Temple, embodying a commitment that transcended comfort and convenience for the sake of God's kingdom. Their presence signifies that the restoration was a collective effort, requiring the contributions of all segments of the community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **children of Solomon's servants (Hebrew, _benei avdei Shelomoh'_):** This phrase literally translates to "sons of servants of Solomon," but "children" or "descendants" is a more appropriate rendering for _benei_ in this context, indicating a hereditary group. The term _avdei_ (servants/slaves) refers not to chattel slavery in the usual sense but to a distinct class of individuals, often non-Israelite, who were bound to serve the king and, by extension, the Temple. These were not merely temporary laborers but families whose lineage was tied to this specific service, passed down through generations. Their designation as "Solomon's servants" connects them directly to the foundational period of the First Temple, emphasizing their long-standing, integral role in Israelite society and worship.
* **Sotai, Sophereth, Peruda:** These are specific family names, meticulously recorded within the larger category of "Solomon's servants." The inclusion of these individual family names, alongside many others in Ezra 2, underscores the highly detailed and precise nature of the census. It signifies that each family, regardless of its historical origin or social standing, was recognized and counted as a legitimate participant in the returned community. This level of detail validates their identity and their right to participate in the rebuilding efforts and to reclaim their place in the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The children of Solomon's servants:":** This opening clause identifies a distinct and recognized group within the returning exiles. It sets them apart from the ethnic Israelites, priests, and Levites, yet places them firmly within the legitimate community that is returning to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. This designation immediately calls to mind their historical origins and their long-standing, hereditary role in supporting the royal and sacred institutions of Israel.
* **"the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Peruda,":** This enumerates three specific family lines belonging to the broader category of "Solomon's servants." The repetition of "the children of" emphasizes the familial and hereditary nature of their identity and service. By naming these specific families, the text highlights the meticulous record-keeping and the importance of each individual lineage in the re-establishment of the community. It confirms their legitimate participation in the return and their continued role in the life of the restored nation.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 2:55, as part of a larger list, primarily employs the literary device of **Genealogy/List**. This detailed enumeration serves several critical functions: it establishes **Identity** and **Legitimacy** for the returning exiles, validating their claims to land, lineage, and roles within the re-established community. The inclusion of "Solomon's servants" demonstrates **Inclusion**, broadening the definition of "Israel" beyond purely ethnic lines to encompass those historically integrated through service to God's house. The sheer **Emphasis through Detail** in the census highlights the divine meticulousness and care for every group and individual involved in the restoration, underscoring that no one was overlooked in God's plan. This comprehensive listing also provides a sense of **Continuity** with the pre-exilic past, showing that despite the exile, the core components of the Israelite community were being reassembled for a new beginning.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 2:55, by meticulously listing "the children of Solomon's servants," offers profound theological insights into the nature of God's people and His redemptive plan. It underscores that God's covenant community is not exclusively defined by ethnic lineage but also by a shared commitment to His service and His house. The inclusion of these non-Israelite descendants, whose families had served the Temple for centuries, demonstrates God's expansive grace and His desire to gather all who are dedicated to Him. This passage reminds us that every role, no matter how humble or historically defined, is valued in God's kingdom and contributes to His grand purposes of restoration and worship. It challenges narrow definitions of belonging and emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's call to participate in His work.

* [Isaiah 56:6-7](/isaiah/56-6 "Isaiah 56:6-7 - Foreigners Joining the Lord")
* [Nehemiah 7:57-60](/nehemiah/7-57 "Nehemiah 7:57-60 - The Nethinim and Servants of Solomon")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ, Many Members")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The inclusion of "the children of Solomon's servants" in the meticulous record of returning exiles offers a powerful lesson for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's kingdom is a place of radical inclusivity, where every person, regardless of their background, social status, or the perceived "importance" of their role, is valued and has a vital place. Just as these descendants of non-Israelite forced laborers were integral to the physical rebuilding of the Temple and the community, so too does every member of the body of Christ contribute to the ongoing work of God in the world today. This passage encourages us to look beyond superficial distinctions and to recognize the inherent dignity and invaluable contribution of all who serve faithfully, whether in prominent leadership or behind-the-scenes support. It calls us to cultivate a community that celebrates diversity of gifts and backgrounds, fostering an environment where every individual feels seen, valued, and empowered to use their unique contribution for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of "Solomon's servants" challenge our modern assumptions about who "belongs" in the church or in God's work?**
* **What "supporting roles" or "behind-the-scenes" ministries in our own communities or churches might be overlooked, and how can we better honor and value those who serve in them?**
* **In what ways might our own personal history or perceived social standing influence our willingness to serve, and how can we embrace humility and faithfulness in any role God calls us to?**

### FAQ
**Who were "Solomon's servants" and why are they listed among the returning exiles?**

Answer: "Solomon's servants" (Hebrew: _benei avdei Shelomoh_) were the descendants of non-Israelite peoples whom King Solomon had conscripted for various building projects, particularly the construction of the First Temple and his royal complexes, as described in [1 Kings 9:20-21](/1_kings/9-20 "1 Kings 9:20-21 - Solomon's Forced Laborers"). Over the centuries, these families had become integrated into Israelite society, often serving hereditary roles as temple assistants, general laborers, or support staff for the sanctuary. They were distinct from the Nethinim, though both groups performed similar functions (see [Ezra 2:43](/ezra/2-43 "Ezra 2:43 - The Nethinim")). Their inclusion in the census of returning exiles in [Ezra chapter 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - The List of Returning Exiles") is highly significant. It demonstrates God's comprehensive plan of restoration, which extended beyond ethnic Israelites to include all who had a historical and faithful connection to the service of His house. Their presence underscores that belonging to God's people was not solely based on lineage but also on dedication and service, and that every part of the community, no matter how humble its historical origin, was vital for the re-establishment of the nation and the Temple.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 2:55, with its meticulous listing of "the children of Solomon's servants" among the returning exiles, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. While these individuals represented those integrated into the Old Covenant community through service rather than direct lineage, Christ's work radically expands this inclusivity. Jesus, the ultimate [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") whose sacrifice breaks down all dividing walls, fulfills the prophetic vision of a people drawn from every tribe and tongue. Through His atoning death and resurrection, Christ creates a new spiritual Temple, the Church, where distinctions of ethnicity, social status, or historical background are transcended. As Paul declares in [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ"), "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Every believer, regardless of their past or perceived status, is now a "fellow citizen with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone" ([Ephesians 2:19-20](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-20 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). Just as Solomon's servants contributed to the physical Temple, so too does every believer, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, become a living stone in God's spiritual house ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), serving as part of a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) in the new covenant community established by Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 9:21

Their children that were left after them in the land, whom the children of Israel also were not able utterly to destroy, upon those did Solomon levy a tribute of bondservice unto this day.

Nehemiah 7:57

The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Perida,