Ezra 8:1

¶ These [are] now the chief of their fathers, and [this is] the genealogy of them that went up with me from Babylon, in the reign of Artaxerxes the king.

These are now the chief {H7218} of their fathers {H1}, and this is the genealogy {H3187} of them that went up {H5927} with me from Babylon {H894}, in the reign {H4438} of Artaxerxes {H783} the king {H4428}.

These are the heads of their fathers' clans, and this is the genealogy of those who went up with me from Bavel during the reign of Artach'shashta the king:

These are the family heads and genealogical records of those who returned with me from Babylon during the reign of King Artaxerxes:

Now these are the heads of their fathers’houses, and this is the genealogy of them that went up with me from Babylon, in the reign of Artaxerxes the king:

Commentary

Ezra 8:1 introduces the register of family heads who accompanied Ezra on the second major return of Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. This pivotal moment occurred during the reign of Artaxerxes I (Longimanus), approximately 58 years after the initial return led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua.

Context

This verse marks a significant transition within the book of Ezra, moving from Ezra's personal commission and preparation (Ezra 7) to the practical organization of the returning community. The list that follows in verses 2-14 details the specific families and their leaders, emphasizing the meticulous planning and divine guidance behind this crucial phase of Israel's restoration. The mention of "Artaxerxes the king" firmly places this event in the mid-5th century BC, highlighting the Persian Empire's role in facilitating God's plan for His people.

Key Themes

  • Restoration and Return: Ezra 8:1 underscores the ongoing process of Israel's physical and spiritual restoration after the Babylonian exile. It signifies God's faithfulness in bringing His scattered people back to their homeland, fulfilling ancient prophecies.
  • Genealogical Integrity: The emphasis on "genealogy" (Hebrew: yahas) was paramount in ancient Israel. It served to confirm their Israelite identity, validate claims to ancestral land, and ensure proper lineage for priestly and Levitical service within the rebuilt temple. This meticulous record-keeping reflects a divine concern for order, continuity, and covenant faithfulness.
  • Leadership and Orderly Process: Ezra, as a priest and a skilled scribe, meticulously records the "chief of their fathers," demonstrating the structured and divinely guided nature of this significant journey. It highlights the importance of recognized leadership in community endeavors.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "genealogy" (yahas) carries the meaning of "to enroll by descent" or "to be registered." It is often used in the context of official records or family registers. The emphasis on "chief of their fathers" (rashei ha'avot) signifies the patriarchal heads of the various clans or ancestral houses, who were responsible for leading their respective families and ensuring their proper place within the community. This attention to detail underscores the importance of identity and lineage in a society deeply rooted in covenant relationships.

Practical Application

Ezra 8:1 reminds us of the importance of spiritual heritage and continuity. Just as the returning exiles valued their lineage and place in God's plan, believers today are called to understand their position within God's larger story of redemption. This verse also speaks to the value of orderly leadership and accountability in spiritual endeavors, ensuring that God's work is carried out with integrity and purpose. It encourages us to appreciate the faithfulness of God across generations and to recognize His meticulous care for every individual within His greater plan.

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Cross-References

  • Ezra 7:7 (3 votes)

    And there went up [some] of the children of Israel, and of the priests, and the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims, unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king.

  • 1 Chronicles 9:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they [were] written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, [who] were carried away to Babylon for their transgression.

  • Ezra 1:5 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then rose up the chief of the fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests, and the Levites, with all [them] whose spirit God had raised, to go up to build the house of the LORD which [is] in Jerusalem.

  • Ezra 7:13 (2 votes)

    I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and [of] his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.

  • 2 Chronicles 26:12 (2 votes)

    The whole number of the chief of the fathers of the mighty men of valour [were] two thousand and six hundred.

  • Ezra 2:62 (2 votes)

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

  • 1 Chronicles 24:31 (2 votes)

    These likewise cast lots over against their brethren the sons of Aaron in the presence of David the king, and Zadok, and Ahimelech, and the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites, even the principal fathers over against their younger brethren.