Ezra 2:39

and the descendants of Harim, 1,017.

Study Bible

and the descendants of Harim,
The name "Harim" appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with priestly or Levitical families. In the context of Ezra, Harim is one of the families returning from the Babylonian exile. This return is significant as it fulfills God's promise to restore Israel after the exile. The descendants of Harim are listed among those who returned to help rebuild the temple, indicating their commitment to reestablishing worship in Jerusalem. The name Harim means "dedicated" or "consecrated," which aligns with their role in temple service. This group is also mentioned in Nehemiah 7:42, showing consistency in the records of those who returned.

1017
The specific number of 1,017 descendants highlights the detailed record-keeping and the importance of each family in the restoration process. This precision underscores the historical reliability of the biblical text. The large number suggests that the family of Harim was significant in size and influence, contributing substantially to the community's efforts to rebuild. This enumeration reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to bring His people back to their land, as prophesied in Jeremiah 29:10-14. The careful documentation of these numbers also serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people through the exile and their return.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Harim
Harim is one of the priestly families returning from the Babylonian exile. The name "Harim" means "dedicated" or "consecrated," indicating their role in temple service.

2. Babylonian Exile
This was a period when the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians. The return from exile marks a significant event in Jewish history, symbolizing restoration and renewal.

3. Return to Jerusalem
The return to Jerusalem is a pivotal event where the Israelites, including the descendants of Harim, come back to rebuild the temple and restore worship.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
The descendants of Harim remind us of the importance of faithfulness in our roles, whether in ministry or daily life. Just as they returned to serve in the temple, we are called to serve God faithfully in our contexts.

Restoration and Renewal
The return from exile symbolizes God's power to restore and renew. No matter how far we may feel from God, He is always ready to bring us back and restore us.

Community and Identity
The listing of families emphasizes the importance of community and identity in God's plan. We are part of a larger body of believers, and our identity in Christ is crucial.

Obedience to God's Word
The challenges faced by the returning exiles, such as intermarriage, highlight the need for obedience to God's Word. We must strive to align our lives with biblical principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the role of the descendants of Harim teach us about the importance of faithfulness in our own service to God?

2. How does the return from exile in Ezra 2:39 reflect God's ability to restore and renew our lives today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our identity in Christ remains strong, similar to how the returning exiles maintained their community identity?

4. How can we apply the lessons of obedience from the challenges faced by the returning exiles to our own lives?

5. What other biblical examples of restoration and renewal can we draw parallels with in our personal spiritual journeys?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Nehemiah 7:42
This verse also lists the descendants of Harim, showing consistency in the records of those who returned from exile.

1 Chronicles 24:8
Harim is mentioned as one of the priestly divisions established by King David, highlighting the long-standing role of this family in temple service.

Ezra 10:21
Harim is mentioned in the context of those who had taken foreign wives, showing the challenges faced by the returning exiles in maintaining their covenant identity.