What is the meaning of Ezra 2:16? Setting within Ezra 2 • Ezra 2 is a meticulous census of those whom “the LORD stirred to go up” from Babylon to Jerusalem (Ezra 2:1). • Every line, including “the descendants of Ater (through Hezekiah), 98,” records real families who answered God’s promise of restoration spoken by Jeremiah 29:10. • Nehemiah later confirms almost the same list (Nehemiah 7:5-7, 21), underscoring literal accuracy. The Name “Ater” • “Descendants of Ater” identifies a distinct family clan, just as other lines mention “the sons of Pahath-moab” or “of Zattu.” • Each surname kept tribal memory alive; God knows households as well as individuals (Numbers 1:2). • Their mention assures every reader that no obedient family is too small for God’s record (Isaiah 49:16). Through Hezekiah • The parenthetical note “through Hezekiah” points to a particular forefather—likely not King Hezekiah but another notable ancestor bearing the same faithful name. • Scripture often marks lineages by godly progenitors (1 Chronicles 4:14; Ezra 8:2), anchoring identity in a righteous heritage. • It reminds us that covenant faith runs through generations when parents walk steadfastly (Deuteronomy 7:9). Numbered at Ninety-Eight • “98” is precise, echoing Ezra’s careful stewardship (Luke 16:10). • Counting mattered for allocating temple duties, land, and offerings (Ezra 2:68-70). • The definitive tally reveals God’s ability to preserve a remnant exactly as foretold (Isaiah 10:20-22; Romans 11:5). Faithfulness Carried Home • These ninety-eight travelers left comfort for rubble, believing God would “rebuild the ruins” (Amos 9:14-15). • Their obedience aligned with leaders like Zerubbabel and Jeshua (Haggai 1:12). • Though unnamed beyond this verse, their step of faith advanced the lineage that would cradle Messiah (Matthew 1:12-13). summary Ezra 2:16 records a literal family—ninety-eight descendants of Ater, traced through an ancestor named Hezekiah—who returned from exile. Their inclusion proves that God values specific households, preserves faithful lineage, and fulfills prophecy exactly, member by member. |
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