Ezra 2:36

ยถ The priests: the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three.

The priests {H3548}: the children {H1121} of Jedaiah {H3048}, of the house {H1004} of Jeshua {H3442}, nine {H8672} hundred {H3967} seventy {H7657} and three {H7969}.

The cohanim: descendants of Y'da'yah, of the house of Yeshua

The priests: The descendants of Jedaiah (through the house of Jeshua), 973;

The priests: the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three.

Commentary

Ezra 2:36 is a precise record found within a detailed census of the Jewish exiles who returned from Babylon to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua the High Priest. This verse specifically identifies one of the priestly families among the returnees:

Context

The book of Ezra chronicles the return of the Jewish people from their seventy-year Babylonian captivity, a pivotal moment in Israel's history. Chapters 1 and 2 lay the groundwork for this restoration, detailing the decree of King Cyrus allowing the Jews to return and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1). Chapter 2 meticulously lists the families and individuals who made the arduous journey back to Judah. This meticulous record-keeping was crucial for establishing identity, land claims, and, most importantly, the legitimate lineage for temple service.

Key Themes

  • Restoration and Order: The detailed enumeration, especially of priestly families, underscores the divine order being re-established after the chaos of exile. It shows God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to their land and their sacred duties.
  • Importance of Priestly Lineage: For the Jews, especially after the destruction of the first Temple, the purity and legitimacy of the priesthood were paramount. Only those of verifiable Aaronic descent could serve in the Temple. The "children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua" refers to a specific, recognized priestly clan, ensuring that the sacred duties could be resumed correctly. This highlights the foundational role of the High Priest Jeshua and his associated priestly families in the spiritual rebuilding.
  • Divine Faithfulness: The very existence of this list, and the significant number of priests returning, testifies to God preserving a remnant and fulfilling His promises to restore His people to their land and worship.

Linguistic Insights

The names themselves carry significance. Jedaiah (ื™ึฐื“ึทืขึฐื™ึธื”) means "Jehovah knows" or "known of Jehovah," reflecting a common Hebrew practice of incorporating divine names. Jeshua (ื™ึตืฉืื•ึผืขึท) is a form of "Joshua" or "Jesus," meaning "Jehovah saves" or "salvation." In this context, "the house of Jeshua" refers to the priestly line associated with Jeshua the High Priest, who was a key figure in leading the spiritual revival and the rebuilding of the altar and the Temple foundation.

Practical Application

For believers today, Ezra 2:36 reminds us of the importance of spiritual order and the value of faithful leadership. Just as the returning exiles meticulously documented their heritage to ensure proper worship, we are called to value the structure and integrity of spiritual service within the church. It also speaks to God's meticulous care for His people, even in seemingly mundane details like a census, demonstrating His commitment to restoring His plan and purpose.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 9:10 (2 votes)

    And of the priests; Jedaiah, and Jehoiarib, and Jachin,

  • Nehemiah 7:39 (2 votes)

    The priests: the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three.

  • Ezra 3:9 (2 votes)

    Then stood Jeshua [with] his sons and his brethren, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, [with] their sons and their brethren the Levites.

  • 1 Chronicles 24:7 (2 votes)

    Now the first lot came forth to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah,

  • 1 Chronicles 24:18 (2 votes)

    The three and twentieth to Delaiah, the four and twentieth to Maaziah.