King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 7:64 Mean?

“These sought their register among those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.”

Context

The children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda, six hundred forty and two.

And of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai, which took one of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite to wife, and was called after their name.

These sought their register among those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.

And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and Thummim. the Tirshatha: or, the governor

The whole congregation together was forty and two thousand three hundred and threescore,

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Commentary

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 7 Chapter Outline Ezra goes up to Jerusalem.(1-10) The commission to Ezra.(11-26) Ezra blesses God for his favour.(27-28) **Verses 1-10** Ezra went from Babylon to Jerusalem, for the good of his country. The king was kind to him; he granted all his requests, whatever Ezra desired to enable him to serve his country. When he went, many went with him; he obtained favour from his king, by the Divine favour. Every creature is that to us, which God makes it to be. We must see the hand of God in the events that befal us, and acknowledge him with thankfulness.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Nehemiah 7:64 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.