Verse:
Ezra 2:14 · "the descendants of Bigvai, 2,056;"

Context and Background:
Ezra 2 is a chapter that lists the exiles who returned to Jerusalem and Judah from Babylonian captivity under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. This return marks a significant moment in Jewish history, as it fulfills the prophetic promises of restoration after the Babylonian exile. The chapter provides a detailed account of the families and individuals who participated in this return, emphasizing the continuity of the Israelite community and their commitment to reestablishing their religious and cultural identity in the Promised Land.

The Descendants of Bigvai:
The mention of the "descendants of Bigvai" in Ezra 2:14 highlights one of the family groups that returned to Jerusalem. The number 2,056 indicates the size of this group, suggesting that they were a substantial family or clan. Bigvai is also mentioned in Nehemiah 7:19, which parallels the list in Ezra, confirming the importance of this family in the post-exilic community.

Significance:
The inclusion of the descendants of Bigvai in the list underscores the collective effort of various families to rebuild the temple and restore the worship practices central to Jewish life. Each family, including that of Bigvai, played a crucial role in the reestablishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral homeland. This return was not merely a physical relocation but a spiritual renewal, as the people sought to reestablish their covenant relationship with God.

Theological Implications:
The return of the exiles, including the descendants of Bigvai, is seen as a fulfillment of God's promises through the prophets, such as Jeremiah and Isaiah, who foretold the restoration of Israel. This event demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant people, despite their previous disobedience and the resulting exile. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to orchestrate historical events to accomplish His divine purposes.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
The returnees faced numerous challenges, including rebuilding the temple, reestablishing the city of Jerusalem, and defending against opposition from surrounding peoples. The listing of families, such as that of Bigvai, reflects the importance of kinship and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. These genealogical records were crucial for maintaining the purity of the priesthood and the community's adherence to the Mosaic Law.

Conclusion:
Ezra 2:14, with its mention of the descendants of Bigvai, is a testament to the faith and determination of the Jewish exiles who returned to their homeland. It highlights the collective effort required to restore their religious and cultural heritage and serves as an enduring symbol of hope and renewal for future generations.2056 (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 2:14
The children of Bigvai, two thousand fifty-six.
(See NAS NIV)

2056 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 2056 (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:14 The children
of Bigvai, two thousand fifty-six. (See NAS NIV). ...
/num/2056.htm - 6k

2067 (1 Occurrence)

/num/2067.htm - 6k

2000 (3 Occurrences)

/num/2000.htm - 7k

Bigvai (4 Occurrences)
... The head of one of the families who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel (Ezra
2:2 Nehemiah 7:7), having a large number of his retainers (2,056, according to ...
/b/bigvai.htm - 8k

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