They had 736 horses, 245 mules, They had 736 horsesIn the context of Nehemiah 7, the listing of animals, including horses, reflects the resources available to the returning exiles. Horses were valuable assets in ancient times, often used for transportation, military purposes, and agricultural work. The presence of 736 horses indicates a significant investment in mobility and defense, suggesting the community's preparedness for both travel and potential conflict. Horses are frequently mentioned in the Bible as symbols of strength and power (e.g., Psalm 20:7), and their inclusion here underscores the rebuilding efforts' seriousness and the community's commitment to establishing a stable society. 245 mules Persons / Places / Events 1. NehemiahThe central figure in the book, Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes and later became the governor of Judah. He led the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore the community. 2. Jerusalem The city of focus in the book of Nehemiah, Jerusalem was in ruins after the Babylonian exile. The rebuilding of its walls symbolized the restoration of the Jewish people and their covenant with God. 3. The Exiles The people who returned from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem. They were tasked with rebuilding the city and re-establishing their community and religious practices. 4. The Census Nehemiah 7 includes a census of the people who returned from exile. This list was important for establishing the identity and heritage of the Jewish people. 5. The Livestock Nehemiah 7:68 specifically mentions the livestock, which were essential for the economic and agricultural stability of the returning exiles. Teaching Points Faithfulness in RestorationGod's faithfulness is evident in the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. We can trust in God's promises and His timing in our own lives. Importance of Community The census underscores the importance of community and identity. As believers, we are part of a spiritual community that supports and strengthens us. Stewardship of Resources The mention of livestock highlights the need for wise stewardship of resources. We are called to manage what God has given us responsibly. Heritage and Identity Understanding our spiritual heritage helps us appreciate our identity in Christ. Just as the exiles were reminded of their lineage, we should remember our identity as God's children. Commitment to God's Work The dedication of the exiles to rebuild Jerusalem serves as a model for our commitment to God's work in our lives and communities. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Nehemiah's leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem inspire you to take initiative in your own community or church?2. In what ways can you contribute to the restoration and strengthening of your spiritual community, similar to the exiles' efforts in Jerusalem? 3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. How does this encourage you in your current circumstances? 4. How can you practice better stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to you, as seen in the mention of livestock in Nehemiah 7:68? 5. What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of your spiritual heritage and identity in Christ, and how might this impact your daily life? Connections to Other Scriptures Ezra 2Nehemiah 7 closely parallels Ezra 2, which also lists the exiles returning to Jerusalem. This connection highlights the continuity and consistency in the restoration efforts. Genesis 12 The promise to Abraham about his descendants and the land is echoed in the return of the exiles, fulfilling God's covenantal promises. Psalm 147 This psalm speaks of God rebuilding Jerusalem and gathering the exiles, reflecting the themes of restoration and divine faithfulness found in Nehemiah.
People Akkub, Amon, Asaph, Ater, Azariah, Azmaveth, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazlith, Besai, Bezai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagaba, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Hanani, Hananiah, Harhur, Harsha, Hashum, Hashupha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Hodevah, Immer, Israelites, Jaala, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebana, Lebanah, Levites, Mehida, Meunim, Mispereth, Mordecai, Nahamani, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nehum, Nekoda, Nephishesim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Perida, Phaseah, Pochereth, Raamiah, Reaiah, Rezin, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Sia, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Tamah, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Babylon, Beeroth, Beth-azmaveth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Gibeon, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-jearim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics 245, Forty, 736, Forty-five, Horses, Hundred, Mules, Seven, Six, Thirty, Thirty-six, TransportDictionary of Bible Themes Nehemiah 7:5-69Library "Take My Yoke Upon You, and Learn of Me," &C. Matt. xi. 20.--"Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me," &c. Self love is generally esteemed infamous and contemptible among men. It is of a bad report every where, and indeed as it is taken commonly, there is good reason for it, that it should be hissed out of all societies, if reproaching and speaking evil of it would do it. But to speak the truth, the name is not so fit to express the thing, for that which men call self love, may rather be called self hatred. Nothing is more pernicious to a man's … Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah The Strait Gate; Influences that Gave Rise to the Priestly Laws and Histories Ezra-Nehemiah Links Nehemiah 7:68 NIVNehemiah 7:68 NLT Nehemiah 7:68 ESV Nehemiah 7:68 NASB Nehemiah 7:68 KJV Nehemiah 7:68 Commentaries Bible Hub |