Ezra 2:53

the descendants of Barkos, the descendants of Sisera, the descendants of Temah,

Study Bible

the descendants of Barkos
The mention of "the descendants of Barkos" in Ezra 2:53 is part of a larger genealogical list detailing those who returned from the Babylonian exile. Barkos is not a widely known figure in the Bible, and there is little direct information about him or his descendants. However, the inclusion of his name signifies the importance of every family and individual in the restoration of Israel. This reflects the biblical theme that God values each person and their role in His plan, as seen in other genealogies throughout Scripture, such as in Genesis and Chronicles. The name Barkos may have been associated with a specific trade or skill, as many of the returning exiles were organized by their professions, particularly those related to temple service.

the descendants of Sisera
The name Sisera is more famously associated with the Canaanite commander defeated by Deborah and Barak in Judges 4. However, the Sisera mentioned here is likely a different individual, as the context is post-exilic. The descendants of Sisera in this passage are part of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants. This connection to temple service highlights the transformation and redemption theme, where even those with names associated with Israel's enemies can be integrated into the community of God's people. It underscores the inclusivity of God's covenant, as seen in Isaiah 56:6-7, where foreigners who join themselves to the Lord are welcomed.

the descendants of Temah
The descendants of Temah are also listed among the Nethinim, the temple servants. The name Temah means "south" or "desert," which might indicate a geographical origin or characteristic of the family. The Nethinim were likely descendants of the Gibeonites, who were assigned to assist the Levites in temple duties (Joshua 9). This reflects the theme of servanthood and dedication to God's house, which is a recurring motif in the Bible. The role of the Nethinim is a precursor to the New Testament concept of servanthood in the church, as seen in passages like Mark 10:43-45, where Jesus teaches that greatness comes through serving others.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Barkos
A name listed among the temple servants who returned from the Babylonian exile. The descendants of Barkos were part of a group dedicated to assisting the Levites in temple duties.

2. Sisera
Another name among the temple servants. This should not be confused with the Canaanite commander defeated by Deborah and Barak in Judges. The descendants of Sisera here are likely a different lineage, serving in the temple.

3. Temah
Also listed among the temple servants. The descendants of Temah were part of the group that returned to Jerusalem to help reestablish worship practices.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Service
The descendants of Barkos, Sisera, and Temah remind us of the vital role of service in the community of faith. Every role, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the greater purpose of worship and community life.

Faithfulness Across Generations
These families maintained their dedication to temple service across generations, illustrating the importance of passing down faith and commitment to future generations.

Inclusion in God's Plan
The temple servants, possibly including non-Israelites, show that God's plan includes a diverse group of people working together for His glory. This encourages us to embrace diversity within the church.

Restoration and Renewal
The return of these families to Jerusalem symbolizes spiritual renewal and the restoration of worship. It challenges us to consider how we can contribute to the renewal of our own communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the dedication of the temple servants like the descendants of Barkos, Sisera, and Temah about serving in our local church communities?

2. How does the inclusion of these families in the list of returnees reflect God's heart for diversity and inclusion within His people?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our faith and commitment to service are passed down to future generations?

4. How does the role of temple servants in the Old Testament compare to the roles of service within the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you contributed to the restoration or renewal of a community or church. What lessons did you learn from that experience, and how can you apply them now?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Nehemiah 7:55-57
This passage parallels Ezra 2, listing the same groups of temple servants, emphasizing the continuity and importance of these families in the restoration of Jerusalem's religious life.

1 Chronicles 9:2
Chronicles the return of the first exiles and highlights the roles of temple servants, showing the importance of their service in the community.

Exodus 12:48-49
Discusses the inclusion of foreigners in the community of Israel, which can relate to the temple servants who may have been non-Israelites but were integrated into the worship life of Israel.