Ezra 2:61

And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai; which took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their name:

And of the children {H1121} of the priests {H3548}: the children {H1121} of Habaiah {H2252}, the children {H1121} of Koz {H6976}, the children {H1121} of Barzillai {H1271}; which took {H3947} a wife {H802} of the daughters {H1323} of Barzillai {H1271} the Gileadite {H1569}, and was called {H7121} after their name {H8034}:

and of the descendants of the cohanim: descendants of Havayah, descendants of Hakotz, and descendants of Barzillai, who took a wife from the daughters of Barzillai the Gil'adi and was named after them.

And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, the descendants of Hakkoz, and the descendants of Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name).

And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Hakkoz, the children of Barzillai, who took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their name.

Commentary

Ezra 2:61 is part of a detailed census of the Jewish exiles who returned from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. This particular verse highlights a significant issue concerning the purity of the priestly lineage.

Context

The book of Ezra chronicles the crucial period of the Jewish people's return from the Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. Chapter 2 provides a comprehensive list of families and individuals who made the journey back, meticulously detailing their numbers. This detailed registry underscores the meticulous effort to re-establish Israel's society, particularly its religious functions, after generations in captivity. The integrity of the priesthood was paramount for legitimate worship and the proper functioning of the Temple, necessitating strict genealogical verification.

Key Themes

  • Purity of Priesthood: The verse underscores the absolute necessity of an unblemished lineage for those claiming to be priests. Service in the Temple required direct descent from Aaron, as prescribed by Mosaic Law. This concern was not merely about social status but about ritual purity and divine authorization for priestly duties.
  • Identity and Genealogy: In ancient Israel, one's identity was deeply tied to their family and tribal lineage. For priests, this was even more critical. The meticulous record-keeping in Ezra 2 demonstrates the profound importance placed on genealogy for confirming one's role and inheritance within the community.
  • Adherence to God's Law: The scrutiny over the children of Habaiah, Koz, and Barzillai reveals the community's commitment to upholding God's commandments regarding the qualifications for the priesthood, even after a long period of exile. This strictness reflects a desire to avoid past errors that led to divine judgment.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "and was called after their name" is crucial. It indicates that the priestly family of Barzillai took a wife from the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite (a non-priestly family) and, perhaps for social or economic reasons, began to be known by the name of the non-priestly father-in-law. This adoption of a different family name, particularly one not associated with the priesthood, obscured their true priestly heritage. In a culture where names signified identity and lineage, this was a serious breach, casting doubt on their legitimate claim to priestly office.

Significance and Application

Ezra 2:61, along with the subsequent verses (Ezra 2:62-63), highlights a challenge to the returning community's spiritual integrity. The descendants of these priests were excluded from serving because they could not definitively prove their lineage. Their inability to prove their lineage meant they were "polluted" from the priesthood, echoing the strict qualifications for priestly service established by God.

For believers today, while we are not bound by the Levitical genealogical requirements, the principle of authenticity and spiritual identity remains vital. As a royal priesthood in Christ, our spiritual lineage is through faith in Him, not by physical descent. This verse serves as a reminder:

  • Spiritual Purity: God still calls His people to holiness and integrity in their service. Our identity in Christ should be clear and unwavering, not diluted by worldly associations that obscure our true calling.
  • Authenticity in Faith: Just as the physical lineage was scrutinized, our spiritual claims should be genuine. We are to live consistently with the new identity we have in Christ, not adopting names or practices that contradict our faith.
  • Value of God's Word: The scrupulous attention to the Law regarding the priesthood emphasizes the importance of adhering to God's revealed will in all matters of faith and practice.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 17:27

    And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,

  • 1 Kings 2:7

    But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.

  • Nehemiah 7:63

    And of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai, which took [one] of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite to wife, and was called after their name.

  • Nehemiah 7:64

    These sought their register [among] those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.

  • 2 Samuel 19:31

    ¶ And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.

  • 2 Samuel 19:39

    And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.
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