Topical Bible: Addin

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Addin is a name found in the genealogical records of the post-exilic community of Israel, specifically mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile. The name appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and reestablish the Jewish community after the Babylonian captivity.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:15 : "the descendants of Adin, 454." This verse is part of a larger list that enumerates the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylon under the leadership of Zerubbabel. The descendants of Addin are noted as numbering 454, indicating a significant family group that participated in the return.

2. Nehemiah 7:20 : "the descendants of Adin, 655." In this parallel account, Nehemiah provides a similar list of returnees. The number of Addin's descendants is recorded as 655, which may reflect a different counting or an inclusion of additional family members who joined the return at a later stage.

Historical and Theological Context:

The return from exile was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the beginning of a new chapter for the people of Israel. The inclusion of Addin's descendants in these records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in the restoration of the Jewish community. Each family group played a crucial role in the rebuilding efforts, contributing to the physical and spiritual renewal of the nation.

The discrepancy in numbers between Ezra and Nehemiah is not uncommon in ancient records and may be attributed to various factors, such as different stages of the return, variations in record-keeping, or the inclusion of additional family members over time.

Significance:

The mention of Addin and his descendants highlights the collective effort required to restore the Jewish homeland. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. The genealogical records, including the family of Addin, emphasize the continuity of God's covenant with Israel and the importance of each individual's contribution to the community's spiritual and physical restoration.

In the broader biblical narrative, the return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem foreshadow the ultimate redemption and restoration promised through the Messiah. The faith and perseverance of families like Addin's are celebrated as part of God's unfolding plan for His people.