Old Testament
Ezra 2:39
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we learn about the descendants of Harim, a group of people who returned from exile.
- Author
- Ezra the priest and scribe
- Written
- Around 440 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Returning Jewish exiles
Descendants of Harim: 1,017.
The children of Harim, a thousand and seventeen.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the descendants of Harim, a group of people who returned from exile. They numbered 1,017 individuals. This count reflects the importance of community and family ties in their culture. Each person counted represents a story, a life, and a connection to their heritage. The return from exile was a significant moment, symbolizing hope and restoration. It shows how people can come together to rebuild their lives after hardship. The number signifies not just a statistic but a collective journey of faith and resilience. This moment reminds us that every individual matters in the larger narrative of life, and together, they can achieve great things. The descendants of Harim are a testament to the strength found in unity and shared purpose, encouraging us to value our own communities and connections as we navigate our paths in life. Their return is a powerful reminder of the importance of belonging and the strength that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves.
How to apply Ezra 2:39 to your life
Consider the importance of your own community and family. Reflect on how your connections shape your identity and support you through challenges. Engage with those around you, fostering relationships that can help you grow and rebuild in times of need. Remember, every individual contributes to the strength of the whole community, just like the descendants of Harim did in their return from exile. Together, we can achieve more than we can alone.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezra 2:39 mean?
Ezra 2:39 lists the descendants of Harim, indicating that there were 1,017 individuals who returned from exile. This verse highlights the importance of family and community ties in the context of rebuilding after hardship.
What is the significance of the number 1,017 in Ezra 2:39?
The number 1,017 represents the total count of the descendants of Harim who returned from exile. It symbolizes the collective strength and unity of a community coming together to restore their lives.
Who are the descendants of Harim mentioned in Ezra 2:39?
The descendants of Harim are a group of people listed in Ezra 2:39 who returned from Babylonian exile. Their inclusion in the census reflects their role in the community's restoration.
How does Ezra 2:39 relate to themes of community and restoration?
Ezra 2:39 illustrates the theme of community by counting the descendants of Harim, showing how individuals contribute to the collective effort of rebuilding after exile, highlighting the importance of unity and shared purpose.

The Book of Ezra
Ezra 1
In the first year of the reign of Cyrus, king of Persia, the Lord stirs his spirit to fulfill the prophecy of Jeremiah. Cyrus makes a proclamation throughout his kingdom and puts it in writing, stating that the Lord God of heaven has given him all the kingdoms of the earth and has charged him to build a house for Him at Jerusalem in Judah. He grants permission for any of God’s people to return to Jerusalem to build the house of the Lord God of Israel, and he encourages those who remain behind to support the returning exiles with silver, gold, goods, and beasts, in addition to a freewill offering for the house of God.
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