Ezra 2:58 (KJV)

What does Ezra 2:58 mean?

Ezra 2:58 lists a specific group among those returning from exile: the Nethinims and the descendants of Solomon’s servants, totaling 392 people. This verse records their number as part of the detailed census of those who came back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity.

Ezra, the writer, is documenting the people who returned to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. The Nethinims were temple servants, and the children of Solomon’s servants were likely descendants of workers assigned to temple duties during Solomon’s reign. This verse highlights that not only priests and Israelites returned, but also those who served in supporting roles, showing the full community involved in the restoration.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 2:58

• נְתִינִים (Nethinim, nethinim): This word refers to a group of temple servants. The name means “given ones,” often understood as people assigned to assist the Levites with temple work. Their inclusion emphasizes the importance of all roles in worship, not just the most prominent ones.
• בֵּן (ben, children): This word means “son” or “descendant.” Here, it refers to the descendants of Solomon’s servants, not just immediate children, showing a generational continuity of service.
• עֶבֶד (eved, servants): This word means “servant” or “slave.” In this context, it refers to those who served under Solomon, likely in temple-related duties, whose descendants continued that role.
• שְׁלֹשׁ מֵאוֹת תִּשְׁעִים וּשְׁנַיִם (shalosh me’ot tish’im u’shnayim, three hundred ninety and two): This phrase gives the exact number, showing the careful record-keeping and the value placed on every group returning from exile.

Why Ezra 2:58 matters

• Ezra 2:58 clarifies that the restoration of Jerusalem included not just leaders and laypeople, but also those in humble, supporting positions, underlining the value of every member in the community.
• The verse connects to the larger census in Ezra 2, showing the careful organization and inclusiveness of the returning exiles, which was important for reestablishing identity and worship.
• By naming these groups, the verse highlights the continuity of temple service from Solomon’s time through the exile and into the restoration, emphasizing faithfulness across generations.