the descendants of Azgad, 1,222; the descendants of AzgadThe phrase "the descendants of Azgad" refers to the lineage or family group that traces its ancestry back to an individual named Azgad. In Hebrew, "Azgad" (אֲזְגָּד) can be understood to mean "strong is Gad" or "Gad is mighty." This name reflects a common practice in ancient Israel of naming individuals in a way that acknowledges the power or attributes of God. The mention of Azgad here is significant as it highlights the continuity of the Israelite community through family lines, even after the Babylonian exile. Historically, the return from exile was a pivotal moment for the Jewish people, as they sought to re-establish their identity and religious practices in Jerusalem. The listing of family names underscores the importance of heritage and the fulfillment of God's promises to preserve His people. 1,222 Persons / Places / Events 1. AzgadAzgad is a name that appears in the genealogical records of the Israelites returning from the Babylonian exile. The name Azgad means "strong is Gad" or "Gad is mighty," with Gad being one of the tribes of Israel. The descendants of Azgad were among those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah to rebuild the temple and restore the community. 2. The Return from Exile This event marks the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem following the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. It was a significant moment in Jewish history, symbolizing restoration and renewal. 3. The Census of the Returnees Ezra 2 is a record of the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem. This census was important for establishing the community's identity and ensuring that the people were of Israelite descent. Teaching Points The Importance of Heritage and IdentityUnderstanding our spiritual heritage is crucial for our identity as believers. Just as the Israelites valued their lineage, Christians are called to recognize their identity in Christ and the spiritual heritage they have received. God's Faithfulness in Restoration The return from exile demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Believers can trust that God will restore and renew them, even after periods of spiritual exile or hardship. The Role of Community in God's Plan The census underscores the importance of community in God's redemptive plan. Christians are encouraged to be active members of their faith communities, contributing to the collective mission of the Church. Obedience to God's Call The descendants of Azgad responded to the call to return and rebuild. Believers are challenged to be obedient to God's call in their lives, even when it requires sacrifice or stepping into the unknown. Bible Study Questions 1. What significance does the name "Azgad" hold, and how does it reflect the character or mission of the descendants who returned from exile?2. How does the return from exile in Ezra 2 parallel the spiritual journey of redemption and restoration in the New Testament? 3. In what ways can understanding our spiritual heritage strengthen our faith and identity as Christians today? 4. How can we apply the principle of community involvement, as seen in the returnees' commitment to rebuilding Jerusalem, to our local church or faith community? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt called to step out in faith. How does the example of the descendants of Azgad encourage you to trust in God's faithfulness and provision? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 7This chapter provides a parallel account of the returnees, including the descendants of Azgad. It highlights the continuity and consistency in the records of those who returned to Jerusalem. 1 Chronicles 9 Chronicles also lists genealogies and the return of the exiles, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in the restoration of Israel. Isaiah 11:11-12 This prophecy speaks of the Lord gathering the remnant of His people from various lands, including Babylon, which connects to the return from exile as a fulfillment of God's promise.
People Akkub, Ami, Asaph, Asnah, Ater, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazluth, Besai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagab, Hagabah, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Harhur, Harsha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Immer, Israelites, Jaalah, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Jorah, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebanah, Mehida, Mehunim, Meunim, Mizpar, Mordecai, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nekoda, Nephusim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Peruda, Phaseah, Pochereth, Reaiah, Reelaiah, Rehum, Rezin, Seraiah, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Siaha, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Azmaveth, Babylon, Babylonia, Beeroth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-arim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics 1, 222, Hundred, Sons, Thousand, Twenty, Twenty-twoDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 2:1-65Library Altar and Temple'And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem. 2. Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. 3. And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Apocalypse. Barzillai The Historical Books. The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close. And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah Ezra-Nehemiah Links Ezra 2:12 NIVEzra 2:12 NLT Ezra 2:12 ESV Ezra 2:12 NASB Ezra 2:12 KJV Ezra 2:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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