And these are the sons of Benjamin; Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jesaiah.

NEHEMIAH 11:7KJV
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What does Nehemiah 11:7 mean?

Nehemiah 11:7 lists the descendants of Benjamin who settled in Jerusalem after the return from exile, naming Sallu and tracing his ancestry through several generations. This verse is part of a record showing which families from the tribe of Benjamin were present in the restored city.

Nehemiah, as the leader overseeing Jerusalem’s restoration, is documenting the families who resettled the city to ensure its stability and proper function. The verse is a genealogical note, highlighting the continuity of the tribe of Benjamin and their role in reestablishing Jerusalem’s community after the Babylonian exile.

Why Nehemiah 11:7 matters

  • This verse helps clarify which specific families from the tribe of Benjamin were involved in rebuilding Jerusalem, showing the careful organization of the returning community.
  • It emphasizes the importance of ancestry and tribal identity in post-exilic Jewish society, which was crucial for roles in worship, leadership, and property rights.
  • By listing these names, Nehemiah connects the present community to their historical roots, reinforcing a sense of belonging and continuity after a period of displacement.