Ezra 8:13

And of the last sons of Adonikam, whose names [are] these, Eliphelet, Jeiel, and Shemaiah, and with them threescore males.

And of the last {H314} sons {H1121} of Adonikam {H140}, whose names {H8034} are these, Eliphelet {H467}, Jeiel {H3273}, and Shemaiah {H8098}, and with them threescore {H8346} males {H2145}.

of the descendants of Adonikam: the younger ones, whose names were Elifelet, Ye'i'el and Sh'ma'yah, and with them 60 males; and

from the later descendants of Adonikam, these were their names: Eliphelet, Jeiel, and Shemaiah, and with them 60 men;

And of the sons of Adonikam, that were the last; and these are their names: Eliphelet, Jeuel, and Shemaiah; and with them threescore males.

Commentary

Context of Ezra 8:13

Ezra 8:13 is part of a crucial section in the book of Ezra, detailing the list of families and individuals who accompanied Ezra on his second major return from Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. This journey, occurring about 80 years after the first return led by Zerubbabel, was specifically for the purpose of bringing the Law of God back to the people, establishing order, and contributing to the ongoing rebuilding efforts of the temple and the community.

The meticulous recording of names and numbers, as seen in this verse with the "sons of Adonikam" and their "threescore males" (60 men), highlights the importance of lineage and accountability in ancient Israel. These lists served not only as historical records but also as a testament to God's faithfulness in gathering His people back to the land, fulfilling His promises after generations of captivity in Babylon.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Return from Exile: The primary theme is the ongoing restoration of Israel, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in bringing His scattered people back to their homeland. This return was not haphazard but carefully organized, emphasizing the divine orchestration of events.
  • Importance of Genealogy: The detailed listing of family heads, like Adonikam, underscores the significance of tribal and family identity in Israelite society. Genealogies established legitimacy, inheritance, and a sense of continuity from their ancestors, as seen in 1 Chronicles 9:1.
  • Community Contribution: Each family and individual, no matter how seemingly small their number, contributed to the collective strength and purpose of the returning community. The "threescore males" from Adonikam's line represent a vital part of the workforce and the future of the nation.
  • Divine Providence: While Ezra meticulously organized the return, the underlying message is that God was providentially guiding these individuals and families back to fulfill His plan for the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, echoing the sentiment of Ezra 7:9 where Ezra acknowledges "the good hand of his God upon him."

Linguistic Insights

The names mentioned in this verse carry significant meanings in Hebrew, often reflecting faith or characteristics:

  • Adonikam (ืึฒื“ึนื ึดื™ืงึธื): Means "my Lord has risen" or "my Lord has stood up." This name might have been a statement of faith or hope, especially in the context of the exile.
  • Eliphelet (ืึฑืœึดื™ืคึถืœึถื˜): Meaning "my God is deliverance" or "God of escape." A fitting name for someone returning from captivity, highlighting God's role in their liberation.
  • Jeiel (ื™ึฐืขึดื™ืึตืœ): Meaning "God sweeps away" or "God gathers." This name could symbolize God's action in removing His people from exile and gathering them back.
  • Shemaiah (ืฉึฐืืžึทืขึฐื™ึธื”): Meaning "heard by Yahweh" or "Yahweh has heard." This name often signifies a prayer answered or a person blessed by God's attentiveness.
  • Threescore males: The term "threescore" is an archaic English term meaning sixty. So, "threescore males" simply refers to sixty men.

Practical Application

Ezra 8:13, though a detailed list, offers several timeless lessons:

  • Every Contribution Matters: Just as these families and individuals contributed to the rebuilding of a nation, so too does every person's unique gifts and presence contribute to the body of Christ today. No role is too small in God's grand design.
  • Faithful Following: The willingness of these individuals to leave their established lives in Babylon and embark on a difficult journey back to Jerusalem demonstrates a commitment to God's call. This encourages believers today to faithfully follow where God leads, even when it requires sacrifice.
  • Understanding Our Heritage: The emphasis on lineage reminds us of the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and the historical faithfulness of God to His people. It encourages us to appreciate the foundations laid by those who came before us.
  • God's Attention to Detail: The meticulous record-keeping reflects God's own attention to detail in His plans and His care for each individual within His covenant community. He knows each of His children by name, as affirmed in Isaiah 43:1.
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Cross-References

  • Ezra 2:13 (3 votes)

    The children of Adonikam, six hundred sixty and six.

  • Nehemiah 7:18 (2 votes)

    The children of Adonikam, six hundred threescore and seven.