Ezra 2:14 (KJV)

What does Ezra 2:14 mean?

Ezra 2:14 lists a group of people returning from exile, specifically “the children of Bigvai,” numbering two thousand fifty-six. This verse is part of a census recording the families and their sizes as they return to Jerusalem from Babylon.

Ezra is recounting the names and numbers of family groups who came back to Judah after the Babylonian exile. The mention of “the children of Bigvai” highlights one of the larger family groups among the returnees, showing the careful record-keeping and the importance of each family’s role in rebuilding the community.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 2:14

• בְּנֵי (bənê, H1121) — “children”: This word often means “descendants” or “members of the family,” not just literal children, so it refers to the extended family or clan of Bigvai.
• בִּגְוַי (Bigvai, H902) — “Bigvai”: This is a personal or family name, likely the ancestor of this group. The verse is linking the group’s identity to their forefather.
• אֶלֶף (’elef, H505) — “thousand”: This word is used for counting large groups, emphasizing the significant size of this family among the returnees.
• חֲמִשִּׁים (ḥămishshim, H2572) — “fifty”: This is a standard number word, showing the exactness of the count.
• שֵׁשׁ (shesh, H8337) — “six”: This rounds out the total, underscoring the detailed record-keeping.

Why Ezra 2:14 matters

• Ezra 2:14 helps show the careful documentation of families returning from exile, emphasizing the importance of each group in restoring Israel’s community life.
• The verse highlights the size of the Bigvai family, suggesting they were a significant part of the returning population and likely played a notable role in rebuilding efforts.
• By listing each family by name and number, the passage underlines the value placed on heritage, continuity, and belonging after a long period of displacement.