Nehemiah 11:7

From the descendants of Benjamin: Sallu son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jeshaiah;

Study Bible

From the descendants of Benjamin:
The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its warriors and strategic location between the northern and southern kingdoms. Benjamin's territory included Jerusalem, making its descendants significant in the rebuilding efforts led by Nehemiah. The tribe's history includes notable figures like King Saul and the Apostle Paul, highlighting its importance in both Old and New Testament narratives.

Sallu son of Meshullam:
Sallu is mentioned as a leader among the Benjamites who returned to Jerusalem. Meshullam, his father, is a name that appears multiple times in the context of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, indicating a family committed to the restoration of the city. This reflects the broader theme of faithfulness and dedication to God's work.

The son of Joed:
Joed is a less common name in the Bible, but its inclusion here emphasizes the importance of genealogical records in establishing identity and heritage. This lineage underscores the continuity of God's promises to His people through generations.

The son of Pedaiah:
Pedaiah means "Yahweh has ransomed," a name that signifies God's deliverance and redemption. This reflects the overarching biblical theme of God as a redeemer, which is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ.

The son of Kolaiah:
Kolaiah is another rare name, and its meaning is not well-documented. However, the inclusion of such names in genealogies highlights the importance of each individual in God's plan, no matter how obscure they may seem.

The son of Maaseiah:
Maaseiah means "work of the Lord," indicating a life dedicated to God's service. This name is fitting in the context of Nehemiah, where the rebuilding of Jerusalem is seen as a divine mission. It also points to the idea that believers are called to be active participants in God's work.

The son of Ithiel:
Ithiel means "God is with me," a powerful reminder of God's presence and support. This assurance is crucial for the Israelites during the challenging task of rebuilding their city and serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His people.

The son of Jeshaiah:
Jeshaiah means "Yahweh is salvation," a prophetic name pointing to the ultimate salvation brought by Jesus Christ. This name encapsulates the hope and deliverance that God promises to His people, both in the immediate context of Nehemiah's time and in the broader narrative of Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sallu
A descendant of Benjamin, Sallu is listed as a leader among those who resettled in Jerusalem. His lineage is significant in establishing his heritage and role.

2. Meshullam
The father of Sallu, Meshullam is part of the genealogical record that traces the lineage of the Benjamites who returned to Jerusalem.

3. Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, the tribe of Benjamin had a significant role in the history of Israel, with Jerusalem being part of their allotted territory.

4. Jerusalem
The central city of worship and governance for the Israelites, Jerusalem's resettlement was crucial for the restoration of the Jewish community post-exile.

5. Resettlement Event
The return of the exiles to Jerusalem and the re-establishment of the city as a center of Jewish life and worship.

Teaching Points

Importance of Heritage and Identity
Understanding one's heritage and identity can provide a sense of belonging and purpose. The genealogies in Nehemiah remind us of the importance of knowing where we come from and how it shapes our role in God's plan.

Faithfulness in Restoration
The resettlement of Jerusalem required faithfulness and commitment. We are called to be faithful in the tasks God sets before us, contributing to the restoration and building of His kingdom.

Community and Leadership
The leaders listed in Nehemiah were crucial for the community's success. In our own lives, we should recognize and support godly leadership and strive to be leaders who guide others in faithfulness.

God's Sovereignty in History
The detailed genealogies show God's hand in history, orchestrating events and people for His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can give us peace and confidence in uncertain times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding your own heritage and identity in Christ influence your daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can you contribute to the "restoration" of your community or church, similar to the resettlement efforts in Nehemiah?

3. What qualities do you see in the leaders listed in Nehemiah that are important for leadership today?

4. How can you support and encourage the leaders in your church or community, following the example of the Israelites in Nehemiah?

5. Reflect on a time when you saw God's sovereignty at work in your life. How does this assurance affect your trust in Him for the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 2
This chapter provides a list of the exiles who returned to Jerusalem, similar to the genealogical records in Nehemiah, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in the restoration process.

1 Chronicles 9
Chronicles also lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem, showing the continuity and importance of these genealogies in the post-exilic community.

Philippians 3
Paul speaks of his own heritage as a Benjamite, which connects to the importance of tribal identity and heritage seen in Nehemiah.