Ezra 2:54
The children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha.
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 4
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
The Nethinim ("given ones") occupied the lowest rung of temple service, performing menial tasks: carrying water, chopping wood, cleaning. Yet Ezra meticulously records their names alongside priests and Levites, affirming their essential role in temple worship during the Second Temple period.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the inclusion of both "preeminent" and "captive" families challenge worldly notions of spiritual hierarchy?
- What menial service in God's kingdom might you be overlooking as "less important" than more visible roles?
- How does God's careful recording of humble servants encourage faithfulness in tasks the world considers insignificant?
Analysis & Commentary
The children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha—The census continues with two more Nethinim families. Neziah (נְצִיחַ) derives from natsach (to oversee, be preeminent), suggesting leadership among temple servants. Hatipha (חֲטִיפָא) means "seized" or "captive," possibly indicating captive origins.
The juxtaposition is striking: a "preeminent" family listed alongside those "seized" as captives. In God's economy, both the exalted and the lowly serve together before His altar. This foreshadows Jesus's teaching that "the last shall be first" (Matthew 20:16)—service, not status, determines spiritual rank in God's household.