Ezra 8:4

Of the sons of Pahathmoab; Elihoenai the son of Zerahiah, and with him two hundred males.

Of the sons {H1121} of Pahathmoab {H6355}; Elihoenai {H454} the son {H1121} of Zerahiah {H2228}, and with him two hundred {H3967} males {H2145}.

of the descendants of Pachat-Mo'av: Ely'ho'einai the son of Z'rachyah, and with him 200 males;

from the descendants of Pahath-Moab, Eliehoenai son of Zerahiah, and with him 200 men;

Of the sons of Pahath-moab, Eliehoenai the son of Zerahiah; and with him two hundred males.

Commentary

Ezra 8:4 is part of a detailed list of the families and their leaders who accompanied Ezra the scribe on the second major return of Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. This verse specifically identifies the lineage of Pahathmoab, noting Elihoenai the son of Zerahiah as a prominent figure, bringing with him 200 males.

Context

Following the initial return led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua (as detailed in Ezra 2), Ezra 8 describes a second wave of Jewish exiles returning to Judah during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia. Ezra, a priest and skilled scribe in the Law of Moses, meticulously records the names of the family heads and the number of men who joined this significant journey. This careful documentation underscores the importance of lineage and community in the post-exilic period, crucial for re-establishing the nation's identity and religious practices in Jerusalem.

Key Themes

  • Genealogy and Lineage: The meticulous listing of family lines highlights their critical importance in ancient Israel, especially after the Babylonian exile. Maintaining accurate genealogies was essential for land inheritance, priestly duties, and confirming one's identity as part of God's covenant people. The family of Pahathmoab is mentioned prominently in other return lists as well, indicating its significant size and historical continuity (Ezra 2:6, Nehemiah 7:11).
  • Return and Restoration: This verse contributes to the larger narrative of God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to their land, fulfilling prophetic promises of restoration after judgment (e.g., Jeremiah 29:10-14). Each family's contribution underscores the collective effort in rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple.
  • Community and Contribution: The "two hundred males" led by Elihoenai represent a significant contingent. This emphasizes the communal aspect of the return, where various families and individuals played their part in the larger divine plan of rebuilding and spiritual renewal in Judah.

Linguistic Insights

The name Pahathmoab (ืคึผึทื—ึทืช ืžื•ึนืึธื‘, *Pachath Mo'av*) literally translates to "governor of Moab" or "pit of Moab." While its exact etymological significance for the family is debated, it was a well-established and sizable clan among the returning exiles. The name Elihoenai (ืึฑืœึดื™ื”ื•ึนืขึตื™ื ึทื™, *Eliho'enai*) is a beautiful Hebrew name meaning "My God is my eyes" or "Towards whom are my eyes but God," reflecting a deep reliance and focus on the divine.

Practical Application

Ezra 8:4, though a seemingly simple genealogical entry, offers valuable insights for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • Every Contribution Matters: Just as Elihoenai and his 200 men were vital to the return, every individual's role, no matter how small or specific, is significant in God's larger plan and the building of His kingdom.
  • Divine Providence in Details: God works through specific individuals and families, orchestrating seemingly mundane details like genealogies to fulfill His grand purposes. He remembers and values each person within His great narrative.
  • Importance of Identity: For the returning exiles, their lineage confirmed their identity and belonging. For Christians, our identity is found in Christ, becoming part of God's spiritual family, which transcends earthly genealogies (Galatians 3:28).
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Cross-References

  • Ezra 2:6 (3 votes)

    The children of Pahathmoab, of the children of Jeshua [and] Joab, two thousand eight hundred and twelve.

  • Nehemiah 7:11 (2 votes)

    The children of Pahathmoab, of the children of Jeshua and Joab, two thousand and eight hundred [and] eighteen.

  • Nehemiah 10:14 (2 votes)

    The chief of the people; Parosh, Pahathmoab, Elam, Zatthu, Bani,