Nehemiah 7:41

The children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven.

The children {H1121} of Pashur {H6583}, a thousand {H505} two hundred {H3967} forty {H705} and seven {H7651}.

descendants of Pash'chur 1,247

the descendants of Pashhur, 1,247;

The children of Pashhur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven.

Commentary

This verse is part of a detailed list found in Nehemiah chapter 7, which records the names and numbers of the Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. This list is almost identical to the one found in Ezra chapter 2, serving as a vital historical record of the community that rebuilt Jerusalem under Nehemiah's leadership and the temple under Ezra and Zerubbabel.

Context

Nehemiah 7 follows the completion of the wall around Jerusalem. Nehemiah appoints gatekeepers, singers, and Levites and then finds the register of those who first returned with Zerubbabel. This chapter provides a meticulous census, establishing the identity and lineage of the families that constituted the restored community in Judah. Verse 41 specifically lists the number of descendants from the family of Pashur who returned.

Key Themes

  • Identity and Lineage: The meticulous recording of family lines emphasizes the importance of tribal and family identity among the returning exiles, crucial for matters of inheritance, religious service, and community structure.
  • Faithfulness in Return: Listing these numbers highlights the significant number of people who chose to leave the relative comfort of exile to return to the challenging task of rebuilding Jerusalem and restoring worship.
  • Divine Providence and Order: The detailed nature of the list suggests God's careful attention to His people and the fulfillment of His promises regarding their return from captivity.

The mention of "The children of Pashur" refers to a specific family group. Pashur was a common name, notably held by a priestly family, but this list likely refers to a lay family or perhaps a branch distinct from the priestly line listed elsewhere in this chapter (see Nehemiah 7:40 for another group listed right before this verse). The number "a thousand two hundred forty and seven" represents a significant number of individuals from this single family group who participated in the return and rebuilding efforts.

Significance

While seemingly just a statistic, verse 41, like the rest of Nehemiah 7, underscores God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant and bringing them back to the land as promised. It also highlights the commitment and faith of these individuals and families who undertook the arduous journey and challenging work of restoring their homeland. The inclusion of specific numbers like 1,247 for the children of Pashur demonstrates the detailed and reliable nature of the historical record preserved in Scripture, affirming the reality of the return from the seventy-year exile prophesied by Jeremiah.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 9:12 (3 votes)

    And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer;

  • Ezra 2:38 (2 votes)

    The children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven.

  • 1 Chronicles 24:9 (2 votes)

    The fifth to Malchijah, the sixth to Mijamin,

  • Ezra 10:22 (2 votes)

    And of the sons of Pashur; Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethaneel, Jozabad, and Elasah.