Nehemiah 7:19

Context

Nehemiah 7:19 is part of a detailed census of the Jewish people who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from the Babylonian exile. This chapter meticulously lists families and their numbers, serving as a vital record for establishing the legitimate members of the post-exilic community. The entire list in Nehemiah 7 is nearly identical to the one found in Ezra chapter 2, underscoring its historical accuracy and significance for the re-establishment of the nation after decades of desolation following the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. This specific verse highlights "The children of Bigvai, two thousand threescore and seven," indicating a significant family group among the returnees.

Key Themes

• Identity and Lineage: For the returning exiles, their family identity and lineage were paramount. These detailed lists affirmed who belonged to the covenant community, ensuring proper tribal inheritance and eligibility for temple service. The specific mention of "children of Bigvai" emphasizes the importance of family units in the restoration of Israel.
• Rebuilding the Community: While Nehemiah is famously known for leading the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah 6:15), this census demonstrates the equally crucial task of rebuilding the social and spiritual fabric of the nation. Knowing the numbers and families helped organize the community for worship, defense, and administration.
• Divine Faithfulness: The mere existence of such a large returning population, meticulously recorded, testifies to God's faithfulness in preserving His people through decades of exile, fulfilling His promises to restore them to their land and rebuild their society.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "two thousand threescore and seven" means 2,067. "Threescore" is an archaic term meaning sixty. So, the verse states that 2,067 individuals belonged to the family or clan of Bigvai. The name "Bigvai" (Hebrew: בִּגְוַי) is likely Persian in origin, suggesting a prominent family or leader among the exiles, perhaps even indicating a foreign official who converted or whose descendants joined the Jewish community. Its inclusion in this vital record signifies its recognized status within the returning community.

Practical Application

Even seemingly mundane lists in the Bible carry profound meaning. This verse, though a simple numerical entry, offers several practical insights:

• The Value of Every Person: God cares about each individual and family. Even in large groups, every person is accounted for and valued in His grand plan of restoration and redemption.
• Community and Belonging: Being part of a spiritual community, having a sense of belonging and shared heritage, is vital for collective strength, purpose, and spiritual growth. The census reinforced this communal identity.
• Stewardship and Accountability: The detailed record-keeping reflects an emphasis on order and accountability within the community. These principles remain relevant for churches and organizations today, highlighting the importance of knowing and caring for each member.