Ezra 8:9

Of the sons of Joab; Obadiah the son of Jehiel, and with him two hundred and eighteen males.

Of the sons {H1121} of Joab {H3097}; Obadiah {H5662} the son {H1121} of Jehiel {H3171}, and with him two hundred {H3967} and eighteen {H8083}{H6240} males {H2145}.

of the descendants of Yo'av: 'Ovadyah the son of Yechi'el, and with him 218 males;

from the descendants of Joab, Obadiah son of Jehiel, and with him 218 men;

Of the sons of Joab, Obadiah the son of Jehiel; and with him two hundred and eighteen males.

Commentary

Context

Ezra chapter 8 details the list of people who returned from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem with Ezra during the second major return, which occurred decades after the first return led by Zerubbabel. This list was crucial for establishing the identity and lineage of the returning community, particularly for matters of inheritance, tribal affiliation, and priestly duties. Verse 9 is a specific entry within this census, identifying one family group and its leader.

Key Themes

  • The Second Return: Part of the larger movement of the Jewish people back to their homeland after the Babylonian captivity.
  • Genealogies and Identity: The meticulous recording of family lines was vital for maintaining tribal identity and fulfilling religious roles in post-exilic Israel.
  • Leadership: Obadiah the son of Jehiel is highlighted as the head or representative of this particular family group returning with Ezra.
  • Divine Orchestration: The successful return and resettlement were seen as God's work in restoring His people.

Linguistic Insights

The names mentioned carry significance. The name Obadiah (Hebrew: ืขึนื‘ึทื“ึฐื™ึธื” - 'Ovadyah) means "servant of Yahweh" or "worshipper of Yahweh," a fitting name for someone participating in the return to restore the worship of God in Jerusalem. The name Jehiel (Hebrew: ื™ึฐื—ึดื™ืึตืœ - Yekhi'el) means "God lives," a declaration of faith even during exile.

Commentary

Ezra 8:9 provides a specific detail within the roster of families accompanying Ezra on the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem (see Ezra 8:1). It records the descendants of Joab who returned, identifying their leader as Obadiah, son of Jehiel, and specifying that two hundred and eighteen adult males were part of this group. This level of detail underscores the importance of knowing exactly who was returning, maintaining records of lineage, and ensuring the community was properly accounted for as they undertook the significant task of rebuilding and re-establishing life in Judah.

Reflection

While a seemingly simple list entry, this verse reminds us that every individual and family played a role in God's plan for restoration. God's attention to detail, even in lists of names and numbers, shows the value He places on each person within His community. It encourages us to remember that our own participation and identity within God's purposes are significant, no matter how small they may seem in the grand scheme.

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Cross-References

  • Ezra 2:6 (2 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.