Verse:
Ezra 2:5 · "the descendants of Arah, 775;"

Context and Background:
The Book of Ezra is a historical account that details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity and the subsequent rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 2 is a significant chapter that lists the exiles who returned to Judah under the decree of Cyrus, the king of Persia. This chapter serves as a genealogical record, emphasizing the continuity of the Israelite community and their connection to the Promised Land.

The Descendants of Arah:
In Ezra 2:5, the descendants of Arah are mentioned as one of the families returning from exile, numbering 775 individuals. This listing is part of a broader census that underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their homeland. The mention of Arah's descendants highlights the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in post-exilic Jewish society.

Significance:
The inclusion of Arah's descendants in the list of returnees is significant for several reasons:

1. Covenantal Faithfulness: The return of the exiles, including the descendants of Arah, is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people. Despite the challenges of exile, God ensured the survival and continuity of the Israelite tribes.

2. Restoration and Rebuilding: The returnees, including Arah's family, played a crucial role in the physical and spiritual restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. Their presence was vital for re-establishing the worship of Yahweh and the observance of the Law.

3. Community and Identity: The detailed genealogical records in Ezra 2, including the mention of Arah's descendants, reflect the importance of maintaining a distinct Jewish identity. This was essential for preserving the cultural and religious heritage of the Israelites amidst foreign influences.

Cross-References:
The descendants of Arah are also mentioned in Nehemiah 7:10, where a similar census is recorded. The slight variation in numbers between Ezra and Nehemiah may reflect different stages of the return or variations in record-keeping.

Theological Reflection:
The listing of Arah's descendants, along with other families, serves as a reminder of God's providential care and the importance of community in the life of faith. It underscores the belief that God works through families and communities to accomplish His purposes, even in times of adversity.

Conclusion:
Ezra 2:5, with its mention of the descendants of Arah, is a small yet significant part of the larger narrative of return and restoration. It highlights the themes of faithfulness, identity, and community that are central to the post-exilic period and the ongoing story of God's people.775 (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 2:5
The children of Arah, seven hundred seventy-five.
(See NAS NIV)

775 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 775 (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:5 The children
of Arah, seven hundred seventy-five. (See NAS NIV). ...
/num/775.htm - 6k

760 (2 Occurrences)

/num/760.htm - 6k

777 (1 Occurrence)

/num/777.htm - 6k

Rezeph (2 Occurrences)
... 3. Its Assyrian Governors: From the Eponym Canons, Ninip-kibsi-ucur was, it appears,
prefect in 839 BC, Uras-eres from 804 to 775 BC, Sin-sallimanni in 747 ...
/r/rezeph.htm - 9k

Shalman (1 Occurrence)
... identified. Some have thought of Shalmaneser IV, who is said to have undertaken
expeditions against the West in 775 and in 773-772. ...
/s/shalman.htm - 9k

Exorcism
... they give of methods used in exorcism (see Whitehouse, HDB, article "Demon," I,
592b; compare 593b; Edersheim, Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, II, 775-76 ...
/e/exorcism.htm - 14k

Exorcist (1 Occurrence)
... they give of methods used in exorcism (see Whitehouse, HDB, article "Demon," I,
592b; compare 593b; Edersheim, Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, II, 775-76 ...
/e/exorcist.htm - 15k

Weights (14 Occurrences)
... of silver collected from 603, 550 males was 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, and,
as each contributed a half-shekel, the whole amount must have been 301, 775. ...
/w/weights.htm - 21k

Measures (50 Occurrences)
... of silver collected from 603, 550 males was 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, and,
as each contributed a half-shekel, the whole amount must have been 301, 775. ...
/m/measures.htm - 35k

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