Topical Encyclopedia Verse: Nehemiah 7:17 · "the descendants of Azgad, 2,322;" Context and Background: The Book of Nehemiah is a historical account focusing on the period of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, is granted permission to lead this effort. The book is a testament to leadership, faith, and community restoration. Chapter 7 of Nehemiah is particularly significant as it lists the genealogies of those who returned from exile. This chapter serves as a bridge between the completion of the wall and the spiritual renewal of the people. It underscores the importance of identity and continuity for the Jewish community. Analysis of Nehemiah 7:17: This verse specifically mentions the descendants of Azgad, numbering 2,322. The mention of Azgad's descendants is part of a larger census that Nehemiah conducts to ensure the proper repopulation and organization of Jerusalem. The census is crucial for several reasons: 1. Restoration of Heritage: The listing of families and their numbers highlights the restoration of the Jewish heritage and identity. It emphasizes the continuity of God's covenant people despite the challenges of exile. 2. Community Organization: By documenting the families and their numbers, Nehemiah ensures that the community is well-organized for both civic and religious life. This organization is vital for the effective functioning of society and the re-establishment of worship practices. 3. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem fulfill the prophecies given by earlier prophets, such as Jeremiah and Isaiah. The detailed genealogies serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. 4. Spiritual Significance: The act of recording these names is not merely administrative but also spiritual. It reflects the importance of each individual in the community and their role in God's redemptive plan. Theological Implications: The inclusion of Azgad's descendants in the genealogical record underscores the theme of divine providence and faithfulness. It reminds readers that God is attentive to the details of His people's lives and that each person has a place in His overarching plan. The preservation and documentation of these families serve as a reminder of God's unchanging promises and His commitment to His covenant people. Conclusion: Nehemiah 7:17, while seemingly a simple record of numbers, is rich with meaning. It is a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people through exile and restoring them to their homeland. The verse invites readers to reflect on the importance of community, heritage, and the fulfillment of God's promises throughout history. Concordance 2322 (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 7:17 Thesaurus 2322 (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance 2322 (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 7:17 The children of Azgad, two thousand three hundred twenty-two. (See NAS NIV). ... /num/2322.htm - 6k 2300 (1 Occurrence) 2400 (1 Occurrence) Azgad (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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