The reference to "822 men" is found in the context of the genealogical and census records of the Israelites, particularly in the post-exilic period when the Jewish people were returning to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylonian captivity. This specific number is mentioned in the book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild the city of Jerusalem and restore the community's religious and social structures.

Biblical Context:

In the book of Nehemiah, the number 822 is associated with the descendants of a particular family or group who returned to Jerusalem. Nehemiah 11:12 in the Berean Standard Bible states: "and their associates who performed the work for the temple—822 men; and Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah."

This passage is part of a larger section in Nehemiah that lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem and their genealogies. The chapter outlines the distribution of the population in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas, emphasizing the importance of repopulating the city with people who could maintain the temple services and the city's defenses.

Significance:

The mention of "822 men" highlights the organized effort to reestablish the religious and civic life of Jerusalem after the return from exile. These men were part of the priestly families responsible for the temple's operations, indicating their crucial role in the spiritual life of the community. The detailed genealogies and numbers underscore the importance of lineage and heritage in maintaining the continuity of the priestly duties and the worship practices of the Israelites.

The specific enumeration of these men also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people, ensuring that the covenant promises could continue through the generations. The careful recording of these numbers serves as a testament to the historical reality of the return and the restoration efforts led by figures like Nehemiah and Ezra.

Related Themes:

1. Restoration and Rebuilding: The return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem are central themes in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The listing of the 822 men is part of the broader narrative of restoration, emphasizing the community's commitment to reestablishing their identity and worship.

2. Genealogy and Heritage: The Bible often emphasizes genealogies to establish identity, legitimacy, and continuity. The mention of specific numbers and family lines in Nehemiah underscores the importance of maintaining the priestly lineage and the roles assigned to different families.

3. Covenant Faithfulness: The return of the exiles and the reestablishment of Jerusalem are seen as acts of God's covenant faithfulness. The preservation of the priestly families, including the 822 men, is a testament to God's ongoing relationship with His people.

4. Community and Leadership: The organization and leadership required to repopulate and rebuild Jerusalem highlight the importance of community and the roles individuals play in achieving collective goals. The 822 men were part of a larger effort that required cooperation and dedication to the common good.

In summary, the reference to "822 men" in Nehemiah is a small but significant detail within the larger narrative of Israel's restoration, emphasizing themes of heritage, community, and divine faithfulness.