Old Testament
Ezra 2:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Descendants of Bezai: 323.
Compare translations
The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty and three.
What Ezra 2:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the descendants of Bezai, who numbered 323 individuals. This count is part of a larger list of people returning to their homeland after a long exile. Each number represents a family, a story, and a connection to their heritage. The mention of Bezai's descendants highlights the importance of community and identity. It reminds us that every person counts in the grand narrative of history. These individuals were not just numbers; they were part of a collective journey back to their roots. Their return signifies hope and renewal, as they sought to rebuild their lives and their community. This verse serves as a reminder that we all have a place in our families and communities, and our contributions matter. It encourages us to reflect on our own connections and the legacies we carry forward. Each name and number tells a story of resilience and belonging, inviting us to appreciate our own heritage and the people who shape our lives today. Together, they represent a new beginning.
How to apply Ezra 2:17 to your life
Consider the importance of your own family and community. Reflect on how your background shapes who you are today. Engage with your heritage and the stories of those who came before you. Remember that every individual contributes to the larger narrative of life. Embrace your role in your community and the impact you can make together with others.
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 2:17
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 2:17
Related Bible verses
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 2:17 tell us about Bezai's descendants?
Ezra 2:17 provides a count of Bezai's descendants, numbering 323 individuals. This figure is part of a larger list of people returning from exile to their homeland, emphasizing the importance of community and heritage in the rebuilding process after a long period of displacement.
Why is the number of Bezai's descendants significant?
The number 323 signifies more than just a statistic; it represents families and individuals who are reclaiming their identity and heritage. Each person counted in this verse contributes to the collective story of the Jewish people returning to their roots, highlighting themes of resilience and hope.
How can Ezra 2:17 inspire us today?
Ezra 2:17 can inspire us to reflect on our own family and community connections. It reminds us that every individual plays a role in the larger narrative of life. By valuing our heritage and the stories of those before us, we can appreciate our place in our communities and the impact we can have together.
What themes are present in Ezra 2:17?
Key themes in Ezra 2:17 include community, identity, heritage, and resilience. The verse illustrates the significance of returning to one's roots and the collective journey of rebuilding a community after exile, emphasizing the importance of each person's contribution to the whole.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.