Ezra 2:37

The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.

The children {H1121} of Immer {H564}, a thousand {H505} fifty {H2572} and two {H8147}.

descendants of Immer

the descendants of Immer, 1,052;

The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.

Commentary

Context of Ezra 2:37

Ezra 2:37 is part of a detailed census of the Jewish exiles who returned to Judah from Babylon following King Cyrus's decree (approximately 538 BC). This chapter meticulously lists the families, their leaders, and the numbers of people who made the arduous journey back to their homeland. This specific verse identifies "the children of Immer" and their total number of one thousand fifty and two individuals. This comprehensive list serves as a historical record, establishing the legitimacy of the returnees and setting the stage for the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem and the re-establishment of the Jewish community.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Restoration and Return: The entire chapter, including this verse, highlights God's faithfulness in bringing His people back from the seventy-year Babylonian exile, fulfilling prophetic promises. It underscores the theme of divine restoration after judgment.
  • Identity and Lineage: The meticulous listing of families and their numbers emphasizes the importance of preserving tribal and familial identity. This was crucial for maintaining the distinctions of the tribes, for land inheritance, and especially for verifying priestly and Levitical descent, which determined who could serve in the Temple.
  • Divine Providence and Order: Even in seemingly mundane genealogical lists, the hand of God is evident. The organized nature of the return and the careful record-keeping reflect God's sovereign plan and the meticulous way He works through human leaders and communities.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Immer" (ืึดืžึตึผืจ, โ€™Immer) itself means "lamb" or "speaking." In the Old Testament, there were several individuals named Immer, most notably a priestly family (1 Chronicles 9:12; Nehemiah 11:13). The inclusion of this specific family and their precise count of "a thousand fifty and two" (1,052) highlights the ancient Near Eastern practice of meticulous record-keeping. Such detailed censuses were vital for administrative purposes, taxation, military organization, and establishing legitimate claims to land and status within the returning community. This list parallels a similar one found in Nehemiah 7, reinforcing its historical accuracy.

Practical Application

While Ezra 2:37 may seem like a simple numerical entry, it offers profound insights for today:

  • God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment: This verse, within the larger context of Ezra, serves as a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His promises. Just as He brought the exiles back, He remains true to His word in our lives, even after periods of difficulty or wandering.
  • The Value of Every Individual: Every person counted in this list mattered to God and to the rebuilding of His community. It emphasizes that each individual, regardless of their perceived significance, plays a vital role in God's larger plan.
  • Community and Shared Purpose: The return from exile was a collective effort of families and communities. It underscores the importance of working together for a common, God-given purpose, whether in rebuilding a physical temple or building up the spiritual body of Christ today.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 24:14 (4 votes)

    The fifteenth to Bilgah, the sixteenth to Immer,

  • Ezra 10:20 (2 votes)

    And of the sons of Immer; Hanani, and Zebadiah.

  • Nehemiah 7:40 (2 votes)

    The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.