What is the meaning of Ezra 2:55? The descendants of the servants of Solomon: “The descendants of the servants of Solomon: the descendants of Sotai, the descendants of Hassophereth, the descendants of Peruda.” (Ezra 2:55) • Ezra records this group immediately after the Nethinim (Ezra 2:43–54), setting them apart as a distinct class of temple-related workers. • 1 Kings 9:20-22 explains that Solomon conscripted surviving Canaanite peoples to serve in roles that freed Israelites for other duties; their descendants kept that identity for centuries. • Their inclusion in the return from exile (compare Nehemiah 7:57-60) shows God’s covenant faithfulness—He preserves every branch of His people, even those with humble tasks (Isaiah 56:6-8). • By listing them, the Spirit underscores that every believer’s service matters (1 Corinthians 12:22-25) and that no one is forgotten in God’s economy (Malachi 3:16-17). the descendants of Sotai • “Sotai” heads the first sub-clan. Though Scripture gives no further narrative about them, their willingness to leave Babylon for a ruined Jerusalem mirrors Abraham’s obedience (Genesis 12:1-4). • Their presence among temple servants highlights a heart for worship rather than status (Psalm 84:10). • Like the poor widow in Mark 12:41-44, their quiet faithfulness teaches that God values devotion over prominence. the descendants of Hassophereth • “Hassophereth” likely points to a family long accustomed to clerical or administrative service under Solomon, fitting the term “scribe” seen elsewhere (2 Samuel 8:17). • Returning to Jerusalem, they would help record genealogies and temple inventories (Ezra 8:34), safeguarding Israel’s identity in accordance with Numbers 1:18. • Their example urges today’s believers to steward God-given skills—whether writing, organization, or record-keeping—for kingdom purposes (Colossians 3:23-24). the descendants of Peruda • As the final name in this trio, “Peruda” testifies that God gathers the last as well as the first (Matthew 20:8-16). • Their lineage, like all the others, had survived conquest, exile, and generational upheaval—proof that the Lord’s promises outlast political powers (Jeremiah 29:10-14). • By stepping back into temple service, they affirm that restoration is inseparable from worship (Ezra 3:1-6) and that rebuilding begins with renewed commitment to God. summary Ezra 2:55 reminds us that God counts every servant. The descendants of Solomon’s servants—Sotai, Hassophereth, and Peruda—show that humble, behind-the-scenes roles are integral to His redemptive plan. Their return from exile proves that the Lord keeps track of names, families, and callings, preserving His people so they can worship and work in the place He appoints. Their legacy encourages believers today to embrace any assignment God gives, confident that He records and rewards faithful service. |
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