Old Testament
Ezra 2:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Descendants of Adonikam: 666.
Compare translations
The children of Adonikam, six hundred sixty and six.
What Ezra 2:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Ezra 2:13, we learn about the descendants of a man named Adonikam, who returned from exile. The number of his descendants is noted as 666. This specific count may seem unusual, but it highlights the importance of family lineage and community in the context of returning to their homeland. Each number represents individuals with stories, hopes, and dreams. The mention of 666 can evoke curiosity, but it primarily serves to document the people who were part of the restoration process. This return was not just about numbers; it was about rebuilding lives and relationships. The descendants of Adonikam, like many others, played a role in the larger narrative of returning to their roots and re-establishing their identity. Their journey reflects the human experience of seeking belonging and purpose after a period of displacement. This verse reminds us that every individual counts in the story of a community, and each person contributes to the collective journey of healing and renewal.
How to apply Ezra 2:13 to your life
Reflect on your own family history and the stories that shape your identity. Consider how your background influences your present and future. Just as the descendants of Adonikam contributed to their community, think about how you can contribute to yours today. Every person matters in the bigger picture of life!
Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezra 2:13
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezra 2:13
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezra
- Author
- Ezra the priest and scribe
- Written
- Around 440 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Returning Jewish exiles
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezra 2:13 say about Adonikam's descendants?
Ezra 2:13 states that the descendants of Adonikam numbered 666. This verse is part of a larger list detailing the families that returned from exile to Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of lineage and community in the restoration of the Jewish people.
Why is the number 666 significant in Ezra 2:13?
The number 666 in Ezra 2:13 is significant as it represents the descendants of Adonikam who returned from exile. While the number may evoke curiosity due to its associations in popular culture, in this context, it highlights the importance of each individual in the community's restoration and the collective journey of rebuilding their identity.
How can Ezra 2:13 inspire us today?
Ezra 2:13 can inspire us to reflect on our own family histories and the impact they have on our identities. Just as the descendants of Adonikam played a role in their community's restoration, we too can consider how our backgrounds shape our contributions to our communities today.
What themes are present in Ezra 2:13?
Ezra 2:13 encompasses themes of community, identity, restoration, lineage, and belonging. It reminds us of the significance of family connections and the collective effort required to rebuild lives and relationships after a period of displacement.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.