Old Testament
Nehemiah 7:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Nehemiah 7:16, the verse lists the descendants of Bebai, a family among the returning exiles from Babylon.
- Author
- Nehemiah, with Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The post-exilic Jewish community
The children of Bebai: 628.
The children of Bebai, six hundred twenty and eight.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nehemiah 7:16, the verse lists the descendants of Bebai, a family among the returning exiles from Babylon. The number given is 628, indicating the size of this particular family group. This census is part of a larger effort to account for all the people who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and its walls after the Babylonian exile. The mention of specific family names and numbers highlights the importance of community and heritage in the Jewish tradition. It also serves to establish a record of those who were faithful to return and contribute to the restoration of their homeland. This verse, while seemingly straightforward, reflects the broader themes of identity, belonging, and the significance of each individual and family in the collective effort to restore Jerusalem. The meticulous recording of names and numbers underscores the value placed on each person in the community, reminding us that everyone has a role to play in the larger narrative of faith and restoration.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nehemiah 7:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of community and our individual roles within it. Just as each family was counted in the rebuilding of Jerusalem, we too have unique contributions to make in our communities. Embrace your identity and actively participate in collective efforts for positive change.
Curated for this public verse page. Nehemiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nehemiah 7:16 mean?
Nehemiah 7:16 lists the descendants of Bebai, indicating that there were 628 members in this family group among the returning exiles from Babylon. This census highlights the importance of community and heritage as the people worked together to rebuild Jerusalem.
What is the significance of the number 628 in Nehemiah 7:16?
The number 628 represents the size of the family of Bebai among those who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. It emphasizes the collective effort of families in the restoration process and the value of each individual's contribution.
How does Nehemiah 7:16 relate to community?
Nehemiah 7:16 illustrates the significance of community by counting each family that returned to Jerusalem. It shows that every individual and family plays a vital role in collective efforts for restoration and rebuilding.
What themes are present in Nehemiah 7:16?
Key themes in Nehemiah 7:16 include community, heritage, restoration, identity, and faithfulness. The verse reflects the importance of each family in the collective journey of returning and rebuilding Jerusalem.
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