Ezra 2:65 (KJV)

What does Ezra 2:65 mean?

Ezra 2:65 reports that, in addition to the main group of returning Israelites, there were 7,337 servants and maids, along with 200 singing men and women. This verse gives a detailed count of the non-Israelite workers and musicians who accompanied the exiles back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity.

Ezra is listing the people who returned from exile, emphasizing not only the families of Israel but also their household staff and those who provided music for worship or community life. The verse highlights the size and organization of the returning community, showing that their social and religious life included many roles beyond just the heads of families.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 2:65

• The word for "servants" is עֶבֶד (ʿeved), which means a male servant or slave. This indicates that the returning group included people in servile positions, reflecting the social structure of the time.
• The word for "maids" is שִׁפְחָה (shiphchah), meaning a female servant or maid. The mention of both male and female servants shows the completeness of the household units returning.
• The word for "singing men" and "singing women" is שָׁר (shar), which refers to singers. These were likely professional musicians who played a role in worship or celebrations, showing that music was an organized and valued part of community life.

Why Ezra 2:65 matters

• This verse clarifies that the returning exiles were not just family heads or leaders, but a full community with servants and musicians, reflecting the complexity of their society.
• By listing the singers separately, Ezra 2:65 highlights the importance of music and worship in the life of the returning community.
• The detailed numbers show the careful record-keeping and organization involved in the return from exile, underlining the significance of this moment in Israel’s history.