Old Testament
Ezra 2:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Men of Anathoth: 128.
Compare translations
The men of Anathoth, an hundred twenty and eight.
What Ezra 2:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Ezra 2:23, we learn about the men from Anathoth who returned from exile. This group consisted of 128 individuals. Anathoth was a town associated with the priestly lineage, and these men were likely part of the community that had a significant role in religious practices. Their return signifies a restoration of identity and purpose after a long period of displacement. Each number represents not just a statistic but lives filled with stories, hopes, and dreams. The mention of their specific number highlights the importance of community and belonging. It reminds us that every individual counts in the larger narrative of rebuilding and renewal. This verse invites us to reflect on our own communities and the importance of each person's contribution to the whole. It emphasizes that every returnee had a role to play in the restoration of their homeland and faith. Their journey back was not just physical but also spiritual, marking a new beginning for them and their families.
How to apply Ezra 2:23 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community today. Every person has a unique role that can make a difference. Reflect on your own journey and how you can help others find their place. Remember, every small action counts in building a stronger community together. Your involvement matters more than you think.
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 2:23
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 2:23
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 2:23 mean?
Ezra 2:23 lists the men of Anathoth who returned from exile, totaling 128 individuals. This verse highlights the importance of community and the role these men played in the restoration of their homeland after a long period of displacement.
What is the significance of Anathoth in Ezra 2:23?
Anathoth was a town associated with the priestly lineage, indicating that the men mentioned in Ezra 2:23 likely had a significant role in religious practices. Their return symbolizes a restoration of both identity and purpose.
How does Ezra 2:23 relate to community?
Ezra 2:23 underscores the idea that every individual counts in the larger narrative of rebuilding and renewal. The return of the 128 men signifies the collective effort needed to restore their community and faith.
What can we learn from Ezra 2:23?
From Ezra 2:23, we learn that every person's contribution is vital to the community. It encourages us to reflect on our own roles and how we can help others find their place in rebuilding efforts.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.