Ezra 2:19 – “the descendants of Hashum 223”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Ezra 2:19 lists the descendants of Hashum, numbering 223, as part of the group returning from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem. Though this group was relatively small compared to others, their inclusion in the list demonstrates their participation in the important task of rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple. The descendants of Hashum were among those who heeded the call to leave behind the life they had known in exile and return to their ancestral homeland to reestablish their community, worship, and relationship with God.

Historical Context

The Israelites had been living in exile in Babylon for about 70 years following the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple due to their disobedience to God’s commandments. However, God promised through the prophet Jeremiah that after 70 years, He would bring His people back to their land (Jeremiah 29:10). King Cyrus of Persia issued a decree allowing the Israelites to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4). Families like the descendants of Hashum responded to this call, leaving Babylon and journeying back to Jerusalem to take part in the restoration. Their return was part of a larger fulfillment of God’s promise to restore His people and rebuild their nation.

Theological Implications

Ezra 2:19 reminds us that God values every individual and family who responds to His call, regardless of their size or prominence. The descendants of Hashum were a relatively small group, but they were important in the eyes of God. Their willingness to return to Jerusalem and contribute to the rebuilding effort shows their faith and obedience to God’s plan. This verse also highlights God’s faithfulness. Despite the Israelites’ past failures and the exile that followed, God remained faithful to His promise to bring them back to their land and restore them.

Literary Analysis

This verse is part of a detailed list of families and their numbers in Ezra 2, recording the groups of Israelites who returned from exile. The careful listing of names and numbers emphasizes that each family’s role was significant in the restoration of Jerusalem. The descendants of Hashum, with 223 members, were a relatively small family group, yet their inclusion underscores that every family’s contribution to the rebuilding of the temple and the community was essential. The structure of this chapter, with its attention to individual families, reflects the collective nature of Israel’s restoration, where every group played a part.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Nehemiah 7:22 – A parallel passage where Nehemiah also lists the descendants of Hashum among the returning exiles.
• Jeremiah 29:10 – God’s promise to bring His people back from exile after 70 years, which is fulfilled in Ezra’s narrative.
• Isaiah 44:28 – A prophecy about King Cyrus allowing the rebuilding of Jerusalem, showing God’s control over historical events.
• Psalm 126:1-3 – A song of thanksgiving for God’s restoration, reflecting the joy of those returning from exile.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Ezra 2:19 serves as a reminder that we are all called to participate in God’s kingdom work, no matter how large or small our role may seem. Just as the descendants of Hashum were a small group but played a vital part in the rebuilding of Jerusalem, we each have a unique role to play in our families, churches, and communities. This verse also teaches us that God values our obedience and faithfulness. He calls each of us to be part of His plan, and our willingness to respond matters greatly, regardless of the size of our contribution.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Ezra 2:19 reflects God’s loving care for His people. Even after the Israelites experienced judgment and exile because of their disobedience, God did not abandon them. He lovingly worked to bring them back to their land and restore their relationship with Him. The fact that the descendants of Hashum are listed by name and number shows that God’s love is personal—He knows each family and individual by name, and He values their participation in His plan. This verse demonstrates that God’s love is faithful and patient, always seeking to bring His people back to Him, no matter what they’ve been through.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Ezra 2:19 can be connected to the larger story of restoration that is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Just as God brought the Israelites back from physical exile, Jesus came to bring us back from spiritual exile. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus restores our relationship with God and provides the ultimate way of return and reconciliation. In Luke 19:10, Jesus says that He came to “seek and to save the lost,” reflecting His mission to bring people back to God, much like the return of the exiles to Jerusalem. The story of the descendants of Hashum participating in the restoration of Jerusalem points to the greater spiritual restoration that Jesus brings to all who trust in Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Ezra 2:19 encourage you to see the value of your role in God’s work, even if it seems small or unnoticed?
2. What does this verse teach us about God’s faithfulness to His promises, even after seasons of hardship or exile?
3. In what ways can you contribute to the restoration of your community or church, just as the descendants of Hashum contributed to the rebuilding of Jerusalem?
4. How does this passage help you understand God’s personal love and care for each family and individual within His people?
5. How does the story of the exiles’ return from Babylon relate to your understanding of Jesus’ role in restoring us to a right relationship with God?