King James Version

What Does Ezra 7:3 Mean?

Ezra 7:3 in the King James Version says “The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth,” — study this verse from Ezra chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth,”

Ezra 7:3 · KJV

Context

1

Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

2

The son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub,

3

The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth,

4

The son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki,

5

The son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the chief priest:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth—continuing backwards through generations, this verse traces Ezra's ancestry through significant priestly names. Amariah (אֲמַרְיָה) means 'Yahweh has said,' emphasizing the prophetic/teaching role of priests who declared God's word. Azariah (עֲזַרְיָה, 'Yahweh has helped') and Meraioth (מְרָיוֹת, 'rebellions' or possibly 'Yahweh is obstinate/firm') reflect the covenant relationship.

These names form a theological testimony: God speaks (Amariah), God helps (Azariah), and God remains faithful despite human rebellion (Meraioth). The genealogy itself preaches—God maintains His purposes through generations, preserving a priesthood to minister His word and grace.

The compressed genealogy (compare with 1 Chronicles 6:3-15) omits some generations, following common Hebrew practice. The purpose isn't exhaustive ancestry but establishing legitimate connection to Aaron through the proper line. Genealogies establish continuity of God's covenant faithfulness across history's disruptions.

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Historical & Cultural Context

These ancestors served during the divided monarchy period. Amariah appears in 2 Chronicles 19:11 as high priest under Jehoshaphat, indicating Ezra descended from high priests. This connection gave Ezra authority beyond ordinary Levites—he represented the highest priestly line.

The selective nature of genealogies in Ezra-Nehemiah reflects post-exilic concern with establishing legitimacy. With the temple destroyed and monarchy ended, priestly credentials became crucial for community leadership. Ezra's impeccable lineage positioned him as authoritative teacher and reformer.

Reflection Questions

  1. What do the theophoric names (incorporating 'Yah'/Yahweh) in Ezra's genealogy teach about naming children as testimony to faith?
  2. How does generational faithfulness, evidenced in this genealogy, encourage long-term perspective in discipleship and family faith?
  3. What principles emerge from genealogical concern about proper qualifications for spiritual leadership today?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
בֶּן1 of 6

“The son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֲמַרְיָ֥ה2 of 6

“of Amariah”

H568

amarjah, the name of nine israelites

בֶּן3 of 6

“The son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עֲזַרְיָ֖ה4 of 6

“of Azariah”

H5838

azarjah, the name of nineteen israelites

בֶּן5 of 6

“The son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

מְרָיֽוֹת׃6 of 6

“of Meraioth”

H4812

merajoth, the name of two israelites

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezra. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezra 7:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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