1 esdras 5:14 - the sons of Adonikam, six hundred sixty and seven: the sons of Bagoi, two thousand sixty and six: the sons of Adinu, four hundred fifty and four:

Generated Verse: 1 esdras 5:14

What does "1 esdras 5:14" mean?


This verse from 1 Esdras 5:14 is part of a list detailing the families and the number of their members who returned to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon. Essentially, it's a census of the returning exiles. Let's break it down:

"The sons of Adonikam, six hundred sixty and seven:" This means that the family or clan known as the "sons of Adonikam" (descendants of Adonikam) numbered 667 people among the returning exiles.
"the sons of Bagoi, two thousand sixty and six:" Similarly, the family of Bagoi had 2066 members who returned.
"the sons of Adinu, four hundred fifty and four:" And the family of Adinu had 454 returning members.

In summary, the verse provides a numerical record of the size of specific families who were part of the group returning from Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. It's part of a larger effort to document and organize the community being re-established in their homeland.

Significance:

Historical Record: The list is likely derived from historical records of the Babylonian exile and the subsequent return. While details may differ in parallel accounts (such as in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah), the overall intent is to document the return.
Genealogy and Identity: These lists would have been important for establishing family lineages and confirming tribal affiliations in the restored community. Land ownership and other privileges could have been tied to these family connections.
Rebuilding Efforts: Knowing the size of different family groups would have been crucial for organizing the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the surrounding areas.
Religious Significance: The return from exile was seen as a fulfillment of prophecy and a sign of God's favor. The detailed lists of returning families reinforced the idea that God was actively restoring his people.

It's important to note that 1 Esdras is considered apocryphal by many Christians, meaning it's not part of the standard biblical canon. However, it's considered canonical by Eastern Orthodox Christians, and it can provide valuable insight into the historical context of the return from exile and the literature surrounding it.

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