Ezra 2:38
The children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven.
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֣י
The children
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
The children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 6
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
אֶ֕לֶף
a thousand
H505
אֶ֕לֶף
a thousand
Strong's:
H505
Word #:
3 of 6
hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand
Historical Context
Pashhur headed the 5th priestly division (1 Chronicles 24:9). The family's Egyptian-influenced name suggests they may have been among the 'mixed multitude' who left Egypt with Israel (Exodus 12:38), later integrated into the priesthood. Their numerical dominance in the return (1,247) indicates successful preservation of priestly identity through the Babylonian exile.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the transformation of a family with Egyptian-influenced names into devoted Yahweh-worshipers teach about God's power to redeem cultural compromise?
- How does Pashhur's numerical prominence despite questionable origins challenge assumptions about spiritual 'pedigree' in ministry?
- In what ways might your own cultural or family background—even if mixed—be redeemed for God's purposes rather than being an obstacle?
Analysis & Commentary
The children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven—Pashur (פַּשְׁחוּר) appears to derive from an Egyptian root meaning 'portion of Horus,' suggesting this priestly family may have had Egyptian connections, perhaps from the Exodus generation or later sojourns in Egypt. With 1,247 members, this was the largest returning priestly family, nearly 29% of all priests—a remarkable concentration from one lineage.
This Pashhur is distinct from Immer's son who persecuted Jeremiah (20:1) and from the Pashhur who heard Jeremiah's warnings to Zedekiah (21:1). The name's Egyptian etymology creates poignant irony: descendants of those who left Egypt's gods now return to serve Yahweh exclusively at His temple. Their prominence in the return demonstrates God's transforming grace—even those with syncretistic name-origins became wholly devoted to the covenant.