This verse, Ezra 2:41, is a snippet from a larger census list in the book of Ezra detailing the Jewish people who returned to Jerusalem from the Babylonian exile. Let's break it down:
"The singers:" This identifies a specific group of people - those who had the job or skill of singing, most likely in the Temple.
"the children of Asaph:" This specifies the family or guild to which these singers belonged. Asaph was a prominent musician during the reign of King David (1 Chronicles 16:4-5, 2 Chronicles 29:13). His descendants or those who followed his musical traditions formed a recognized group of musicians.
"one hundred twenty-eight." This is the numerical count of the people belonging to the Asaph group who returned from exile.
Therefore, the verse means that among the returnees from Babylonian exile were 128 singers who were descendants or followers of Asaph, a notable musician from the time of King David, and were responsible for musical worship in the Temple.
Significance:
Continuity: The verse highlights the continuation of Temple traditions and worship even after the exile. Despite the disruption of their lives, the singers maintained their identity and skill and were ready to resume their roles.
Restoration: The list itself is a sign of restoration. It indicates that the Jewish people were returning to rebuild their lives, their community, and their religious practices in their homeland.
Organized Society: The fact that these groups are listed by profession shows an organized society. Different groups were designated to take on different roles as they reestablish their society.
Essentially, this seemingly small verse provides a glimpse into the rebuilding process and the importance of music and religious tradition in the restored Jewish community.
This verse, Ezra 2:41, is a snippet from a larger census list in the book of Ezra detailing the Jewish people who returned to Jerusalem from the Babylonian exile. Let's break it down:
"The singers:" This identifies a specific group of people - those who had the job or skill of singing, most likely in the Temple.
"the children of Asaph:" This specifies the family or guild to which these singers belonged. Asaph was a prominent musician during the reign of King David (1 Chronicles 16:4-5, 2 Chronicles 29:13). His descendants or those who followed his musical traditions formed a recognized group of musicians.
"one hundred twenty-eight." This is the numerical count of the people belonging to the Asaph group who returned from exile.
Therefore, the verse means that among the returnees from Babylonian exile were 128 singers who were descendants or followers of Asaph, a notable musician from the time of King David, and were responsible for musical worship in the Temple.
Significance:
Continuity: The verse highlights the continuation of Temple traditions and worship even after the exile. Despite the disruption of their lives, the singers maintained their identity and skill and were ready to resume their roles.
Restoration: The list itself is a sign of restoration. It indicates that the Jewish people were returning to rebuild their lives, their community, and their religious practices in their homeland.
Organized Society: The fact that these groups are listed by profession shows an organized society. Different groups were designated to take on different roles as they reestablish their society.
Essentially, this seemingly small verse provides a glimpse into the rebuilding process and the importance of music and religious tradition in the restored Jewish community.