Topical Encyclopedia Verse: Nehemiah 7:18 · "the descendants of Adonikam, 667;" Context and Background: The Book of Nehemiah is a historical account focusing on the period of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, is granted permission to lead this effort. Nehemiah 7 is a continuation of the narrative where Nehemiah takes measures to ensure the security and repopulation of Jerusalem. This chapter includes a census of the people who returned from exile, paralleling the list found in Ezra 2. Analysis: Nehemiah 7:18 specifically mentions the descendants of Adonikam, numbering 667. This entry is part of a larger genealogical record that serves several purposes: 1. Historical Record: The listing of families and their numbers provides a historical account of those who returned to Jerusalem. It underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land after the Babylonian captivity. 2. Covenantal Identity: By documenting the returnees, the text reinforces the continuity of Israel's covenantal identity. Each family listed, including the descendants of Adonikam, represents a link in the chain of God's chosen people, maintaining their heritage and identity. 3. Community Restoration: The enumeration of families highlights the communal effort required to rebuild not just the physical walls of Jerusalem but also the social and religious fabric of the Jewish community. The descendants of Adonikam, like other families, played a role in this collective endeavor. 4. Spiritual Significance: The detailed genealogies reflect the importance of each individual and family in God's redemptive plan. The inclusion of specific numbers, such as the 667 descendants of Adonikam, emphasizes the precision and care with which God orchestrates His purposes. Theological Implications: The mention of the descendants of Adonikam in Nehemiah 7:18 serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of community in the life of His people. It illustrates how God uses individuals and families to accomplish His divine will, encouraging believers to recognize their role in the broader narrative of God's kingdom. Conclusion: Nehemiah 7:18, while seemingly a simple record of numbers, is rich with meaning. It is a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and a call to the community to participate in the restoration and renewal of their covenantal relationship with Him. The descendants of Adonikam, along with the other families listed, are integral to the story of redemption and restoration that unfolds throughout the Scriptures. Concordance 667 (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 7:18 Thesaurus 667 (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance 667 (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 7:18 The children of Adonikam, six hundred sixty-seven. (See NAS NIV). ... /num/667.htm - 6k Ethiopia (26 Occurrences) Text (5 Occurrences) Manuscripts 666 (1 Occurrence) 675 (1 Occurrence) Tirhakah (2 Occurrences) Adonikam (1 Occurrence) Malefactor (2 Occurrences) Cyprus (12 Occurrences) Resources What is cheap grace? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |