King James Version

What Does Ezra 7:4 Mean?

Ezra 7:4 in the King James Version says “The son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki,” — study this verse from Ezra chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Ezra 7:4 · KJV

Context

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:

6

This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki—the genealogy continues reaching back to earlier priestly generations. Zerahiah (זְרַחְיָה) means 'Yahweh has risen/shone,' suggesting divine glory and revelation. Uzzi (עֻזִּי, 'my strength') and Bukki (בֻּקִּי, 'proved' or 'waste') connect to still earlier generations serving in the pre-monarchical and early monarchical periods.

The pattern continues: names bear witness to God's character and faithfulness. This genealogical chain links Ezra to Israel's foundational period, showing that post-exilic restoration connected to original Mosaic covenant, not innovation. The continuity validates Ezra's teaching authority—he represented an unbroken tradition from Sinai.

Theologically, this illustrates that God's work in history shows continuity, not constant new beginnings. The faith 'once delivered to the saints' (Jude 3) passes through generations. Ezra didn't invent new religion but faithfully transmitted received truth from authoritative lineage.

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Historical & Cultural Context

These names appear in 1 Chronicles 6:4-6, confirming the genealogical tradition. Uzzi and Bukki served during the judges period or early monarchy, representing the priesthood as it transitioned from tabernacle to temple worship. The genealogy thus spans Israel's entire covenant history from Sinai to the return from exile.

The preservation of such detailed genealogies through the exile demonstrates the community's commitment to maintaining identity and proper worship structures. Without temple or land, genealogical purity became paramount for preserving distinctive covenant people.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the multi-generational scope of Ezra's genealogy challenge contemporary short-term thinking in ministry and discipleship?
  2. What does the continuity from Sinai through exile teach about God's faithfulness to preserve His covenant people?
  3. How should believers today maintain connection to historical orthodox Christianity while addressing contemporary contexts?

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

זְרַֽחְיָ֥ה2 of 6

“of Zerahiah”

H2228

zerachjah, the name of two 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

עֻזִּ֖י4 of 6

“of Uzzi”

H5813

uzzi, the name of six 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

בֻּקִּֽי׃6 of 6

“of Bukki”

H1231

bukki, 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 7:4 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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