Ezra 8:20

Also of the Nethinims, whom David and the princes had appointed for the service of the Levites, two hundred and twenty Nethinims: all of them were expressed by name.

Also of the Nethinims {H5411}, whom David {H1732} and the princes {H8269} had appointed {H5414} for the service {H5656} of the Levites {H3881}, two hundred {H3967} and twenty {H6242} Nethinims {H5411}: all of them were expressed {H5344} by name {H8034}.

and from the temple servants, whom David and the princes had assigned to serve the L'vi'im, two hundred temple servants, all recorded by name.

They also brought 220 of the temple servants, all designated by name. David and the officials had appointed them to assist the Levites.

and of the Nethinim, whom David and the princes had given for the service of the Levites, two hundred and twenty Nethinim: all of them were mentioned by name.

Commentary

Ezra 8:20 highlights a specific group of temple servants, the Nethinims, joining Ezra's expedition from Babylon back to Jerusalem. This verse underscores the meticulous preparation and divine orchestration behind the return of the exiles and the re-establishment of temple worship.

Context

Chapter 8 of Ezra details the list of families and individuals who accompanied Ezra on his second journey from Babylon to Jerusalem, distinct from the initial return under Zerubbabel. Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of God, was tasked with restoring religious life and the temple service. As he gathered the people by the river Ahava before the perilous journey, he realized there were no Levites among the initial group, which was crucial for temple duties. After sending messengers, he successfully recruited Levites and also the Nethinims, who were essential support staff for the temple. This verse specifically mentions 220 Nethinims, all accounted for by name, indicating their importance to the mission of restoring true worship in Jerusalem.

Key Themes

  • Divine Provision and Inclusion: The inclusion of the Nethinims demonstrates God's comprehensive provision for the temple service. Even those in supporting roles, often considered "lower" in status, were vital and divinely called for the task. This echoes the biblical principle that every part of the body is necessary.
  • Meticulous Organization and Accountability: The phrase "all of them were expressed by name" emphasizes the careful record-keeping and personal recognition. This speaks to the divine attention to detail and the value placed on each individual's contribution to God's work. It suggests that God knows and values each of His servants by name, as He does His people (Isaiah 43:1).
  • Support for Temple Service: The Nethinims were crucial for assisting the Levites in their duties, ensuring the proper functioning of the temple rituals and maintenance. Their role was foundational to the spiritual restoration Ezra sought to achieve.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Nethinims" (Hebrew: Nethinim, נְתִינִים) literally means "given ones" or "dedicated ones." They were likely descendants of non-Israelites, such as the Gibeonites whom David and the princes had appointed. Originally, the Gibeonites were dedicated by Joshua to be "hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD" (Joshua 9:27). Over time, this group became an established class of temple servants, fulfilling various tasks that supported the Levites and priests. Their inclusion by name in Ezra's census highlights their recognized and valued place within the community returning to rebuild Jerusalem.

Practical Application

Ezra 8:20 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  1. Every Role Matters: No task in God's kingdom is too small or insignificant. Just as the Nethinims were vital for temple service, every believer's contribution, whether prominent or behind-the-scenes, is valued and necessary for the functioning of the church and the spread of the Gospel.
  2. God Knows You By Name: The fact that "all of them were expressed by name" reminds us that God is intimately aware of each of His children. He knows our efforts, our sacrifices, and our service, and He values us individually.
  3. Importance of Preparation and Order: Ezra's careful recruitment and accounting of these servants underscore the importance of preparation, order, and diligent planning in spiritual endeavors. God's work is not chaotic but is best accomplished through thoughtful organization and dedication.
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Cross-References

  • Ezra 2:43 (5 votes)

    The Nethinims: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabbaoth,

  • Ezra 7:7 (4 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 9:2 (3 votes)

    Now the first inhabitants that [dwelt] in their possessions in their cities [were], the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims.

  • Ezra 8:17 (2 votes)

    And I sent them with commandment unto Iddo the chief at the place Casiphia, and I told them what they should say unto Iddo, [and] to his brethren the Nethinims, at the place Casiphia, that they should bring unto us ministers for the house of our God.

  • Philippians 4:3 (2 votes)

    And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and [with] other my fellowlabourers, whose names [are] in the book of life.