Ezra 2:65

Beside their servants and their maids, of whom [there were] seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven: and [there were] among them two hundred singing men and singing women.

Beside their servants {H5650} and their maids {H519}, of whom there were seven {H7651} thousand {H505} three {H7969} hundred {H3967} thirty {H7970} and seven {H7651}: and there were {H428} among them two hundred {H3967} singing men {H7891} and singing women {H7891}.

not including their male and female slaves, of whom there were 7,337. They also had 200 male and female singers.

in addition to their 7,337 menservants and maidservants, as well as their 200 male and female singers.

besides their men-servants and their maid-servants, of whom there were seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven: and they had two hundred singing men and singing women.

Commentary

Context

Ezra 2:65 is part of a detailed census found in Ezra chapter 2, which meticulously lists the families and individuals who returned to Judah from Babylonian captivity. This return was orchestrated under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia, as recorded in Ezra 1:1-4, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's history—the beginning of the post-exilic period and the restoration of Jerusalem and its Temple. Verse 65 concludes the general enumeration of the returning community, specifically highlighting the inclusion of servants, maids, and, notably, musicians, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the returning population and their diverse roles.

Key Themes

  • Divine Restoration and Meticulousness: The detailed accounting throughout Ezra 2, including this verse, highlights God's faithfulness in orchestrating the return of His people as prophesied. It demonstrates the divine care for each individual and group, ensuring the community was fully equipped for the task of rebuilding the altar and Temple. This precision underscores God's sovereignty over historical events and His commitment to His covenant promises.
  • Community and Order: The inclusion of servants and musicians alongside the main body of returnees shows the comprehensive nature of the restored community. Every role, from manual labor to artistic worship, was valued and necessary for the re-establishment of a functioning society centered on God. This reflects the principle that a healthy community requires diverse contributions.
  • Worship and Joy: The specific mention of "two hundred singing men and singing women" (Hebrew: sharim and sharot) is highly significant. These were professional musicians, likely Levites, whose role was crucial for the Temple services and public praise. Their presence signals the intent to restore full-fledged worship and expresses the joy and gratitude associated with their return and the prospect of resuming sacrifices and praise in Jerusalem. It shows that worship was central to the identity and purpose of the returning exiles.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "singing men and singing women" (Hebrew: sharim and sharot) refers to professional singers. In ancient Israel, especially during the time of the First Temple, these musicians, often Levites, played a vital role in leading corporate worship and praise. Their inclusion among the returnees emphasizes the importance of restoring the liturgical aspects of Jewish life, not just the physical structures.

Significance and Application

Ezra 2:65 reminds us that God's plans are comprehensive, accounting for all aspects of life and all types of people. The inclusion of servants and musicians teaches us that every individual has a place and a purpose in God's kingdom work, whether in foundational labor or in leading worship. It emphasizes that true restoration involves not just physical rebuilding but also spiritual renewal, marked by joy and vibrant worship. This verse encourages us to value all roles within the Body of Christ and to embrace worship as a vital part of our spiritual journey, just as it was for the returning exiles. It highlights the importance of intentional worship as a response to God's faithfulness and a cornerstone of community life.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 19:35

    I [am] this day fourscore years old: [and] can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

  • Psalms 148:12

    Both young men, and maidens; old men, and children:

  • Psalms 148:13

    Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory [is] above the earth and heaven.

  • Psalms 68:25

    The singers went before, the players on instruments [followed] after; among [them were] the damsels playing with timbrels.

  • Nehemiah 7:67

    Beside their manservants and their maidservants, of whom [there were] seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven: and they had two hundred forty and five singing men and singing women.

  • Exodus 15:20

    And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.

  • Exodus 15:21

    And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
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