Neko'da is a name found in the genealogical records of the post-exilic community of Israel, specifically mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The name is associated with a family group that returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem and Judah.

Biblical References:

1. Ezra 2:48 · In the list of the Nethinim, or temple servants, who returned with Zerubbabel, the family of Neko'da is mentioned: "the sons of Jaala, the sons of Darkon, the sons of Giddel, the sons of Shephatiah, the sons of Hattil, the sons of Pochereth-hazzebaim, and the sons of Ami." The Nethinim were a group assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple, and their inclusion in the list underscores their role in the religious life of the restored community.

2. Nehemiah 7:50 · This passage parallels the account in Ezra, listing the sons of Neko'da among the Nethinim who returned: "the sons of Reaiah, the sons of Rezin, the sons of Nekoda, the sons of Gazzam." The repetition of these genealogies in both Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the importance of maintaining the continuity of temple service and the purity of the community's religious practices.

3. Ezra 2:60 and Nehemiah 7:62 · These verses mention the sons of Neko'da in a different context, as part of a group whose genealogical records could not be found, thus raising questions about their ability to prove their Israelite descent: "The sons of Delaiah, the sons of Tobiah, the sons of Nekoda, 652." This lack of documentation posed a challenge to their full integration into the community, reflecting the post-exilic emphasis on genealogical purity and the restoration of Israel's identity.

Historical and Theological Context:

The return from Babylonian exile marked a significant period in Jewish history, characterized by the rebuilding of the temple and the re-establishment of religious practices. The Nethinim, including the family of Neko'da, played a crucial role in this restoration process. Their service in the temple was vital for the functioning of the sacrificial system and the maintenance of worship according to the Law of Moses.

The mention of Neko'da in the context of genealogical uncertainty also reflects the broader theme of identity and belonging in the post-exilic community. The emphasis on proving one's lineage was not merely a matter of social status but was deeply connected to the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The ability to trace one's ancestry back to the patriarchs was seen as a validation of one's place within the chosen people.

In summary, the family of Neko'da represents both the continuity and challenges faced by the returning exiles. Their inclusion among the Nethinim underscores their contribution to the religious life of the community, while the questions surrounding their genealogy highlight the complexities of re-establishing a cohesive and faithful Israelite identity after the exile.Neko'da (4 Occurrences)

Ezra 2:48
the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam;
(See RSV)

Ezra 2:60
the children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda, six hundred fifty and two.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:50
the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:62
the children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda, six hundred forty and two.
(See RSV)

Neko'da (4 Occurrences)
Neko'da. Nekoda, Neko'da. Nekodan . Multi-Version Concordance Neko'da
(4 Occurrences). Ezra 2:48 the children of Rezin, the children ...
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Nekoda (4 Occurrences)

/n/nekoda.htm - 8k

Nekodan

/n/nekodan.htm - 6k

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