the descendants of Ater (through Hezekiah), 98; the descendants of AterThe name "Ater" means "left-handed" or "shut up" in Hebrew. This family is listed among those returning from the Babylonian exile, indicating their commitment to reestablishing their heritage and worship in Jerusalem. The mention of Ater highlights the importance of family lineage and continuity in Jewish culture, as well as the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. (through Hezekiah) 98; Persons / Places / Events 1. AterAter is a family name mentioned in the genealogical records of those returning from the Babylonian exile. The name "Ater" means "left-handed" or "maimed" in Hebrew, indicating perhaps a physical characteristic or a notable ancestor. 2. Hezekiah This is likely a reference to a descendant of King Hezekiah, a righteous king of Judah known for his reforms and trust in God. The connection to Hezekiah may indicate a noble lineage or a family that maintained faithfulness to God during the exile. 3. The Return from Exile This event marks the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem, as decreed by King Cyrus of Persia. It was a significant moment of restoration and rebuilding for the Jewish community. Teaching Points Faithfulness Across GenerationsThe mention of Ater through Hezekiah highlights the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God across generations. Families today can strive to pass down a legacy of faith and trust in God. The Significance of Heritage Understanding one's spiritual heritage can provide encouragement and a sense of identity. Believers are encouraged to explore their spiritual lineage and draw strength from the faith of those who have gone before. Restoration and New Beginnings The return from exile symbolizes God's ability to restore and renew. In our lives, God offers new beginnings and opportunities for restoration, no matter our past circumstances. The Role of Community in God's Plan The collective return of families and individuals underscores the importance of community in God's redemptive plan. Believers are called to participate actively in their faith communities, supporting and encouraging one another. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the mention of Ater through Hezekiah in Ezra 2:16 inspire you to consider your own spiritual heritage and legacy?2. In what ways can the faithfulness of King Hezekiah serve as a model for your personal walk with God today? 3. How does the return from exile in Ezra 2 reflect God's faithfulness and ability to restore? Can you identify areas in your life where you need God's restoration? 4. What role does community play in your spiritual journey, and how can you contribute to the strengthening of your faith community? 5. How can understanding the historical and genealogical context of biblical passages enhance your study and application of Scripture in daily life? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Kings 18-20These chapters provide the historical background of King Hezekiah, highlighting his faithfulness and reforms in Judah. This connection underscores the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God, as seen in the lineage of Ater through Hezekiah. Nehemiah 7:21 This verse parallels Ezra 2:16, listing the same family among those who returned. It emphasizes the continuity and importance of genealogical records in preserving the identity and heritage of the Jewish people. Isaiah 37:14-20 This passage recounts Hezekiah's prayer for deliverance from the Assyrians, demonstrating his reliance on God. It serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and trust in God's deliverance.
People Akkub, Ami, Asaph, Asnah, Ater, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazluth, Besai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagab, Hagabah, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Harhur, Harsha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Immer, Israelites, Jaalah, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Jorah, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebanah, Mehida, Mehunim, Meunim, Mizpar, Mordecai, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nekoda, Nephusim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Peruda, Phaseah, Pochereth, Reaiah, Reelaiah, Rehum, Rezin, Seraiah, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Siaha, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Azmaveth, Babylon, Babylonia, Beeroth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-arim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics 98, Eight, Family, Hezekiah, Hezeki'ah, Namely, Ninety, Ninety-eight, SonsDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 2:1-65Library Altar and Temple'And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem. 2. Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. 3. And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Apocalypse. Barzillai The Historical Books. The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close. And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah Ezra-Nehemiah Links Ezra 2:16 NIVEzra 2:16 NLT Ezra 2:16 ESV Ezra 2:16 NASB Ezra 2:16 KJV Ezra 2:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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